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Lilian Jackson Braun: The Cat Who… series
The Cat Who… series is available at Diesel Ebooks and at Amazon.com.
A few years ago, the Mystery Guild Book Club polled members with the question “Which mystery writer would you rather be stranded on a desert island with?” The winner: Lillian Jackson Braun. The book club didn’t ask why readers voted for her, but anyone who has read Ms. Braun’s novels knows why.
With the exception of the first three novels, which set the stage for the series, each novel is a vacation for the reader to a quirky, arts-loving, small town where the most important edifice is the library. Each novel in the series is a murder mystery, but the violence is off-screen, and the murder presents itself early in the story as a problem to be solved. While solving the murder, the protagonist and the reader learn something about the arts such as painting, ceramics or spinning and weaving, along with drama, history, literature and geography.
As far as I can count, Lillian Jackson Braun has written twenty eight novels in The Cat Who… series starting with The Cat Who Could Read Backwards, published in 1966, and continuing through The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers, published in 2007.
The series starts with the story of Jim Qwilleran, an unemployed journalist who had once been great but whose alcoholism and divorce had derailed his career. Now alone and on the wagon, he hopes to get any job he can, just to pay the rent. Mortified by the fact that he is forced to accept an insignificant column in the features section, he accepts, and in his research he ends up solving a murder. He adopts the victim’s now homeless cat, Koko, who proves to be the most intelligent and entertaining, if not the most well-behaved cat in literature.
The series gets interesting when Jim suddenly finds himself heir to one of the largest fortunes in America, providing that he move to the town of Pickax described as “400 miles north of everywhere.” For Qwilleran, moving to Pickax isn’t near as much of a problem as figuring out what to do with all that money.
The Girlebooks reading list recommends this series for the sheer fun of reading. The beauty of this series is that when you get that lost feeling after reading a really good book you can always pick up the next one.
>>> Join the discussion in the new Lilian Jackson Braun fan forum!
SPOILERS AHEAD:
I just finished The Cat Who HAd Sixty Whiskers. I was devastated and little P.O’d at Polly for leaving Qwill. I also could not believe Ms. Braun burned the barn down. I just loved to read his description of the house. I also loved his little quirks with POlly. There was always the mystery of would they get married? I feel so bad for Qwill. I am really upset at Ms. Braun for finishing this book like this. I doubt I will read anymore of books with the enthusiasm that I always have. She made a bad move and I don’t know why.
I have a sneaky feeeling that she is trying to end the series. Plus, you have to admit that Qwill and Polly had had some rough times. What I don’t understand is Polly’s callous behavior towards Brutus and Catta. Why could she have not had Qwill escort them to Paris? France does not have the strict quarantine rules that England had.
As for the barn burning down, methinks it was done by the stuck-up one at the mansion. She wasn’t overly happy when Bart and Qwill escorted her out of the barn so quickly. Though we don’t know for sure, she’s probably ticked off that she didn’t get the position for Pickax’s community scheduler.
I’m glad, though, that they are doing something to recognize Homer Tibbets; it’s long overdue. When he died, the funeral wasn’t even mentioned–and I’m sure his funderal entourage was probably longer than any of the Goodwinters’!
Well, here it is 2010 and I don’t know if the author is alive or dead!!!! I started the series at my local library just recently and they don’t have several of her books on the shelves. I heard that 28 have been written, but I am not sure. I like these books because I have NOT read them in order and it has not bothered me at all. I just love to read ANY of them and since Quill came into money it has gotten to be more enjoyable reading for me. I do think it helps to be a CAT LOVER to get into the reading of these books. I’m just very happy that I found them and enjoying the reading of any one of them I can get my hands on. I still have about one third of them left to read and then I think I will start from 1 again and etc.!!!!
I’m only just starting to read “The Cat Who Had Sixty Whiskers” so this was a bit of a spoiler. However, the joy of reading LJB’s books is that the ending doesn’t matter as much as the journey. This isn’t the first fire Mr. Q has endured (remember the K mansion?) Nor is it his first love lost (for example, his wife, a girlfriend Rosemary, and the love of his life, Joy, who was murdered shortly after their reunion.) “The Cat Who Saw Red” where Joy was murdered was, because of its vivid descriptions of making and firing pottery, one of my favorite “Cat Who” books in spite of the love lost. I liked Polly, but LJB always seems to dream up something better to replace that which is lost. And besides, he could get her back…
What happened to the “The Cat who Smelled Smoke”? I thought it was due out in June but the publisher pulled it.
I have to say that I am glad Polly is gone. Quill really needs someone to respond to him. And someone who really loves the cats and finds them cleaver and exciting.
You’re right, Sheila, “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” is still not available, at least anywhere that I can find it. I have been reading about Lilian Jackson Braun, what there is to find out about her–which is not much–and she is nearing if not past 90. I began to wonder how long she can keep up the series. How can we live without it?
I have every book in this series. I read and kept all of my copies of “The Cat Who” books and have read them over and over again until the last one came out (Cat With 60 Wiskers). I haven’t picked one up since. I was VERY unhappy & disappointed in the last 3 books in the series and really felt as if someone else was writing the books for Ms.Braun. The writing is not her style. Questions remained unanswered when the books ended and it just seemed as if they weren’t being thought out correctly. I do hope Ms. Braun is ok but if she’s going to retire the series then she should announce it and stop the series. Putting out books like the last 3 or so is not being fair to her many many readers and fans.
I agree with C. S. Phillips that the last three books were not as good as the earlier ones. I just finished reading the first five books in the series, and they are much better than the later ones. However, Ms. Braun, if Wikipedia is accurate, is about 93 years old, and any writing she does at all is close to a miracle. I notice that “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” is still not available, although it will be the next in the series. Yes, I will buy it and read it, if for no other reason than curiosity. The trajectory of the series, however, has something to do with the tired themes of the last three books. In the early books, it was all Qwilleran could do to keep a roof over his head and caviar for the cats in the pantry. Now with a fortune at his disposal, plot lines are more limited, even if the fantasy factor is a draw for the reader. Who wouldn’t like to live in a friendly town with bags of money and a part time job?
I am sure we all want Ms Braun to continue to write The Cat Who…series, as she has given us so many wonderful hours of reading.
I too wondered why she burned the barn. I loved picturing all the nooks and crannies with the cats.
Let us hope she is just teasing us before a great knew book comes out.
I agree with Sheila. I hated losing the barn. Owning four cats, I have coveted the ramp that the cats scamper up and down, in addition to the lingering smell of apples. The shoddily, build, prefab Ittibittiwasse Estates just can’t replace it! I also miss the Klingenshoen mansion.
I couldn’t believe Polly leaving her beloved Brutus & Catta. She loved them to excess previously.
I hope the find out who burned down the barn. Maybe it can be rebuilt. All those wonderful things he had inside.
I got to here because I was trying to find out if “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” is out yet. I have all the other books & loved them. I agree the last 3 were not quite as good, but will buy the last one if it comes out. The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers seem to kind of jump around-didn’t flow smoothly. Things just seemed thrown in. She has given us a lot of pleasure over the years-hate for it to end, but the years catch up with all of us.
I am wondering if the holders of the copyrights for the “Cat Who…” series intend to carry on the when Ms. Braun retires. There is always the question of whether the new author or group of authors will live up to the original standard. On the other hand, different Cat Who books might be better than no Cat Who books. For readers hankering for good “man and his cat” stories while we wait for “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” Cleveland Amory and Peter Gethers have written some charming non-fiction books that start with a “The Cat Who” title. (“The Cat Who Came for Christmas” and “The Cat Who Went to Paris.”) [Note: if this post has any typos, my cat apologizes. She was licking my hand while I typed. At least she didn't walk across the keyboard this time. Uh oh--here she comes...]
I’m from the Philippines and I am a fan of the Cat Who series. Right now I’m reading The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare. I like the series because the suspense is just enough for me to bear. Last week I was reading John Grisham’s The Pelican Brief — a version for children in fact — and the suspense nearly killed me. Since I write for magazines, I enjoy — and try to learn from — how Qwill asks his questions and gets ideas for his column. Of course his good fortune and how he can always beat the deadline makes me green with envy.
Myra has a point. Reading John Grisham, or Dan Brown, or Robert Ludlum is grueling. Lilian Jackson Braun’s style harks back to the more leisurely styles of Agatha Christie, Daphne Du Maurier and Vera Caspary. You stroll through the book rather than rush through it. I said before that I thought reading LJB is more like taking a vacation in Pickax. Perhaps this is why.
I love the Cat Who books and listen to them on tape at least ten times. The last book really upset me as I could visualize the barn and the lovely surrounding area. I hope someone with Ms. Brauns love of mystery and country folk picks up the series because I feel like I have lost some very close and wonderful friends!!!!!!!!
I started reading the Cat Who series about 10 years ago and stopped when I had my two children. I have now restarted and am about to start “The Cat Who Talked to Ghosts”. I agree with Joyce McDonald … it would be great to see another author or group of authors carry on the series. I don’t know what else could or would capture my attention as much as Qwill, Koko and Yum-Yum.
Like Maureen, I would certainly miss my vacations in Pickax when LJB puts down her pen. I recently bought the book “Nancy Drew and the Women Who Created Her” and it made me think of the LJB series. LJB is a real person, but if she passed the torch to a loyal and talented writer, would the series keep its readership? Interesting, after mentioning Daphne Du Maurier in my last comment, I happened upon the book “Rebecca’s Tale” by Sally Beauman, in Costco. This book is a sequel to “Rebecca”. “Rebecca” is one of my favorite books, and yet the sequel is thus far (I’ve read about a third of the book)living up to expectations. Hmmm…what if Sally Beauman…
I have read every one of her books some more than once. I truly enjoy them. I do agree that the last few did not seem as good as the rest but they were still entertaining. However if LJB is still writing them and the fact that she is in her 90’s could contribute to that. I do hope that she has someone who can take up the reigns and carry on for her. I would hate to imagine not visiting with Qwill, Koko and YumYum.
Barb’s comment got me to thinking. It seems that a lot of LJB fans, Barb and I included, would like to see the series continued indefinitely. Maybe it would be fun to post here what we would like to see in future “Cat Who” books. For example, I would like to find out, now that Polly is gone, that Joy Graham is not dead at all, and that she pays a visit to Qwill–perhaps sets up a pottery in Pickax. What would happen then? What other stories would you like to see?
I always wondered what happened to Rosemary and Qwill’s ex wife. I want Polly back and the barn. I loved Mrs. Cobb, what a great cast of characters she created. I hope someone takes over and Qwill gets to visit down below again.
I think it would be a good storyline if Koko picked out someone for Quill.
I too would like to see the series continued but only if they’re as good as the first 20/25 books. I’m glad Polly is gone, I didn’t like her at all. Much too pushy & a real snob (poor “Quill dear”). I most certainly DID NOT like the major characters being off. Why? What was the purpose? I liked Mrs. Cobb and also Derek’s rich girlfriend from Breakfast Island who was killed off in the last book with no explanation. Why burn down the mansion and the barn? These are a part of what Pickax is all about.
In answer to Cheryl’s commentary, Rosemary came to visit Qwill at Aunt Fannie’s lakeshore cabin in Moose county (“The Cat Who Played Brahms.”) She hit it off well with Aunt Fannie. Then Aunt Fanny died while Rosemary was up there. Rosemary helped Qwill go through the Klingenshoen mansion looking for the will. However, after the murder and other instances of terror, Rosemary was ready to hightail it back “down below”. The relationship was doomed from the beginning. She was a health food nut; he was a meat and potatoes man. She was probably 15 years older than Qwill. They couldn’t finish each other’s sentences, nor could they understand each others’ jokes. Still, Rosemary had her attractions, and it might be nice to see her again.
Qwill’s wife, Miriam, it was revealed in “The Cat Who Saw Red”, was in a mental hospital. We also learned that Miriam up and left him. This puts a whole new light on their breakup. I thought at first that she had left him because of his drinking, but the story line seems to insinuate that he took up that sport after she left him. Maybe it was when the in-laws started asking him for money. They are supposedly wealthy and he (at least in the first four novels) is usually penniless.
I think Kayla has a great idea of having Koko pick someone out for Qwill. After all, no woman is allowed to stay in Qwill’s life unless Koko approves of it, and he is VERY particular.
I would have to say my favorite “Qwill woman” was Melinda Goodwinter, his doctor. She has the same dry wit and sharp intelligence as our favorite newsman.
I love the Cat books. I would hate to see Polly leave as she is a good.
I just started reading this series and want to get all of them read.
I get them at our local library and they seem to have a lot of them.
Norma Driggs
Norma, You won’t be disappointed they are so entertaining and adictive. I have read them and re-read them. Enjoy
I agree with Barb. I have read most of them more than once. It is very hard to stop once you start the series from the beginning. The LJB books are so different from a lot of fiction in that the books are relaxing and inviting, like a small town diner. Most also are informative of one topic or another, like journalism, pottery, spinning, limmericks, haiku or even Scottis literature. You never know what you’re going to learn about next.
I am wondering if possibly the publisher is delaying “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” book until after Lilian’s death. She is 95…maybe the publisher thinks they’ll make more money if her fans have to wait for it.
I also agree with alot of the other comments about the last 3 books. I especially concur that Polly seemed very out of character in the last one. She would never abandon her cats, just like Qwill wouldn’t!
I have never been so surprised about events in a book like I was with Lilian’s last one. It reminded me of when I was working my way through all of Agatha Christie’s, with her neat twists and turns, except this time, it didn’t solve a murder. It just left me wondering when she’d write the whole book was simply a dream. Overall, the book didn’t feel right and I felt gypped when I finished it.
I hope someone continues the series.
Well, Lyn, you may be on to something. Are you old enough to remember “Dallas?” They wiped out an entire season of “Dallas” (one in which Bobby died) by making it out to be a bad dream. One could only wish that Lillian had that in mind for “The Cat Who had 60 Whiskers”. Maybe in the next one, it will start back there a ways in the time line.
I would be less inclined to think that the publishers are holding back until LJB’s demise and more likely to believe that they realize people were not real happy with the outcome of the last one and maybe want to LJB to re-think how she is going to resolve it. Another issue they have to deal with is that if this could possibly be her last book, what will happen to Qwill? Will they off him (cringe) or will they hire someone else to continue his life?
I’m being patient in waiting for “Smoke” for the same reason I haven’t read the last two Harry Potter novels: I want to have something to look forward to.
My mom and I love this series, but were both sad about the last book. It just wasn’t up to her standards.
It was sad about the barn being burned. Also, Quill seemed to have no regrets about it– he wasn’t portrayed as grieving the loss.
The Polly issue was also very abrupt. She left her cats and Quill like they never mattered. If I were LJB I would somehow make it a dream like someone else had suggested.
Heard yesterday that the publisher has cancelled all pre-orders for “Smoke”, which led me to find this site.
My sister turned me onto “The Cat Who..” years ago, and we both feel that four or five books ago someone else took over writing them. LJB always had cute little word plays and puns, but in two books in particular it stopped being cute and felt very forced and contrived. Then it seemed like they gave someone else a try, and the next book or two seemed more like Lilian’s previous works. I hated “60 whiskers” but was/am still waiting to see what happens with “smoke”. I wonder if the publisher was trying to rush it to press before she died to make it seem like she wrote the next book, but then discovered whomever was ghostwriting it blew it? I also hope that Quill, Koko and Yum Yum get to live on after her. I’d miss them!
I agree with Cay. I felt like someone else was doing the writing in the last few books. I hope that they find a writer who can continue to bring us the enjoyable stories about characters who have almost become “friends”. I’d miss them too.
I thought Polly was getting a little tiresome in the last few books-seemed like she took Quill for granted. I agree-she would not just up and leave her cats-that was totally out of her character.
It seemed like quite a few of the characters we got fond of were killed off in some of the books, so I guess we should not have been surprised when the beloved Applebarn burned. No one or no thing was secure (with the exception of Quill, Koko, and YumYum.)
For being a crime free area-there were sure a lot of murders and arsons.
I do hate to see the series end-I have really enjoyed the books. I also hope someone picks up where LJB left off.
Actually, I lost quite a bit of enthusiasm for the series when LJB killed off Elizabeth Cage, Derek’s girlfriend, and had none of the characters display more than the most perfunctory acknowledgement of her untimely, tragic death. No one even inquired how Derek was holding up. It was so heartless, I was stunned. Then I read a review that said anyone who loved the series should never read the Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers, so I didn’t. Now, having read the comments here and learned a little about the plot, I can see why. I never thought Polly was a very well developed character in the first place, but for the publisher to release a story that had her leaving Qwilleran and abandoning her cats is an insult to the whole series. Agatha Christie’s later books were pale by comparison with the quality of her earlier works, but at least she never compromised her characters. How stupid of the publishers to have evicerated the integrity of the series.
Did Lilian Jackson Braum die? If so I missed reading about it.
Peggy: No, LJB did not die that we know if. Her book “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” was delayed being published, and we were speculating, since she’s about 93 years old, how long she could keep up writing.
Karen: You were right. Thas was strange that Derek’s girlfriend got such short shrift. Of course I would NEVER recommend that someone NOT read one of the Cat Who books. I actually found “The Cat Who Saw Red” (a very early offering) to be the most painful, but also one of the best. Who knows what is happening with the recent books. Maybe the editor is screwing things up. But as long as LJB publishes, I will read.
I’m so glad to read that others believe, as I do, that someone else has been honchoing the last two or three LJB books. Familiar characters have been behaving in most unexpected ways! Nonetheless, I’m waiting with fingers crossed for The Cat Who Smelled Smoke — hoping for a return of the old LJB magic!
I first found Qwill, Koko, and Yum Yum at a most difficult time in my life. My husband had died suddenly at 35, and I wanted only to lose myself in something mindless. After reading my first Cat Who, I felt that I had three new friends in Qwill, Koko, and Yum Yum, and they’ve since helped me through some tough times.
I’ve read each of the books four times over the last two years, and I’m starting on my fifth go ’round. The books may not be high art, but every time I (re)read one, I learn something new about human — and feline — nature. And, more importantly, I feel optimistic about life.
Viva Qwill, Koko, and Yum Yum!
I really hope that they can find someone to “pass the pen” to who can continue in the same way as LJB. I named one of my cats Koko because of her pointed markings. The characters in her books are like visits from dear friends and I hope they will continue.
Cat Lover from Boston, I am so touched by your story about healing you have done by reading “Cat Who” books. You give a lot of credit to LJB, but I suspect that the healing resource is within yourself, and that LJB just helped to catalyze it. Qwill, as we well know, was also putting his life back together after some disastrous life events and some even more disastrous life choices. Qwill and both the cats lost loved ones early in the series. It was only through their union that they could properly heal, move on, and finally find joy. I find it inspiring that this union could help someone else heal as well.
As Barb says, reading LJB is like gaining new friends in Qwill, Koko and Yum Yum. I suspect that sometimes they understand you more than your real friends, and you don’t have to explain yourself to them. A real plus when no words exist to describe how you are feeling.
I was glad to see Polly go but happy she moved on to a bit of adventure in Paris – BUT she would never never have abandoned her cats! People move with their animals all the time. I was disappointed that Ms. Braun wrote Polly out like that – surely her charater would have come back and told Quill directly about her plans! At least she didn’t kill her off by having her run over by the bookmobile or food poisoning!
I agree with other comments that the last few books have been a bit lacking in substance.
I found out about the publication cancellation of the new book when my library abruptly cancelled my book request hold.
what is the order of the books I have read
The Shakespeare one
The cat that saw Red
but I know that there are more before the ones I have read but I don’t know the order to read them in
thanks
While casually browsing the Web for information about a new release from LJB, I discovered this site with the comments. It was heart-warming to find others who have enjoyed the Cat Who series as much as I have. I agree that the last few books were not the same as earlier publications; I especially missed the little touches of humor.
Kris,
If you check out the Wikipedia site for The Cat Who series it will give you a list in order. I know once I found the correct order I have re-read the series several times.
Barb,
Thank you
I will take a look at that site.
I have a book titled
The cat who had 14 tales
it is not listed on the Wikipedia site
does anyone know if this is in the series???????
Also have mystery cats 3 and More mystery cats
are they in another series
thanks
To Kris Moore: Read “The Cat Who Saw Red” next. It is way before “The Cat Who Knew Shakespeare.” My first go round, however, I started in the middle, went forward, and worked back. It was kind of fun, like a flashback, to see the early Qwill after I had become introduced. Thus, don’t get too hung up on the order. I’ll try to publish a list in order soon.
“14 Tales” is a book of short stories about cats (not Koko and Yum Yum) written by Lillian Jackson Braun.
“Mystery Cats 3″ is a book of cat mysteries by different authors, and includes “Phut Phat Concentrates” by LJB, a story that is also in “14 Tales”. “MC3″ has offerings by some very renowned authors, so don’t be put off by the fact that there is only one LJB story in there. It is an enjoyable story book.
If you liked these stories, I also recommend Lesley O’Mara’s “Best Cat Stories” and Stella Whitelaw’s “Favorite Cat Stories.”
If you read “The Cat Who Had 14 Tales” you can find references to some of the stories in that book in some of the other “Cat Who…” books. I think the cat that is the namesake of “Tipsy’s Tavern” might be one of the stories.
Thank you all so much for your information.
I have read a few of the Books and am already hooked.
I did get the list from the wikipedia site, I have a lot of reading to do.
Hi, Fran! When I got your post via email, for some reason I couldn’t find it here. Didn’t mean to ignore you for so long, because we want to thank you for your kind words and welcome you to the group!
From the looks of this blog, there are lots of people that are hooked on LJB. There will be more reviews and treats for members of this blog as we go along. Laura is already plotting her next move! I’ll be getting back to reading LJB after I finsh Dorothy Sayers (another addictive mystery writer.)
Hi! I am delighted to have found this site. I have read the “Cat Who” series for around 10 years. I own every book and also every one on tape. I listen to them in my car every day. I discovered them after my divorce, when I was looking for books to read and had more time on my hands. Every now and then I see one of the books at a garage sale and I buy it for an extra. Last night for kicks I read again “Brahms”. What a delight. I read them at first as I discovered them, and then lately as new ones came out I read them in order. The first one I read was “Cheese” and then “Shakespere”. What a spectacular ending “Brahams, Shakespere, Glue, and Wasn’t There” had. I still recall the surprise I felt the first time I read them. And if you go back and read again, “Closet”, you realise how much information and plots and side plots were packed into that story. I hope they never end. Who would you pick to play Qwill if a movie or series was ever made. I think Tom Selleck would make a good Qwill, or the man who plays the Captain on Monk, I forget his name.
Welcome, Robin. I guess LJB helps a lot of people get through tough times. I think she would be happy to hear that.
I didn’t even know they had LJB on tape! That must be fun to listen to. I’ll have to look for them.
I never thought about making a movie of LJB, but that is certainly a fun idea. Tom Sellek does sound like a good pick for Qwill. I was trying to think of how I pictured Qwill. To be honest, I think I visualized Mike Ditka for no particular reason. But then Mike Ditka isn’t an actor.
I think Tom Sellek is to young looking I picture Qwill more like Noble Willingham (Walker Texas Ranger the older guy) Mike Ditka is another good choice (visually)but he is not an actor.
I an eagerly awaiting “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke”, no matter how bad it is or how different it is from the older books, I am ready for the saga to continue.
Oh dear the man on Walker Texas Ranger would have been good 10 years ago, but he is in his 70s now. Tom Sellek is 58. I think an actor in his 50s or early 60s would be old enough. What about the man who was the star in the comedy Coach, and more recently played the police chief in “The District”? He is in his early 60s.
Unless I missed something, Qwill is in his late 40’s and has been so for about 40 years. I wish we all could age so gracefully.
Overstock.com has the audio book for pre-order. It is stated as being available Jan. 1 2009.
I fear for the worst–maybe it will never be published! It will be hard to leave Qwill & Polly & the barn as it is now.
From running around on different sites I have found some helpful information about her recent books. Mainly trying to find the status of “Smoke”
She has a new editor. That can explain why the recent books SEEM different, but it is still her. I caught in (was it “Whiskers” or “Bombshell”) Koko was NOT mentioned by his full name, and the “recall” as I call it of how he got his name and who it was after failed to appear. Now knowing about the editor this makes sense.
There were other nuances that she always carried over in every book that were missing as well or changed slightly that made it seem out of place. Again, blame the editing staff for trying to get creative and change things up.
Her books were written for a reader to start in at any point in the series. I started in at “Shakespeare”, then went back to the proper point. It didn’t seem out of place that much.
I am anxious to hear news from the publisher on “Smoke”. It seems she is trying to get the ducks all in a row so to speak based on how the last book wrapped up.
You have to remember. Her first 3 were written in the late 60’s!! They only took off in the mid 80’s really. So the series has been around for quite some time.
Travis, Thanks sooooo much for your update! It would explain so much! It seemed that I had noticed a few inconsistencies in the later books. I can’t remember exactly what, but I vaguely remember that it was something to do with what happened to Qwill’s wife, and the explanation didn’t jive with the first four or five books in the series. I’ll have to research that issue. But the issue of the new Editor would certainly explain things. It would seem that those idiots would realize that when they get “creative” they are playing with fire if the author has a dedicated readership like LJB’s.
The cat who had 60 whiskers——
My theory is, Quill was out riding his bicycle, and had an accident that left his in a coma, and this is his nightmare, of “what could
happen”. Maybe, I just wish this
series would never end, I have all the books, and really enjoy them.
Bettie Morrell, I like your theory, it was all a dream, a nightmare.
The “dream” angle is compelling, but some of us old geezers remember that from the series “Dallas”. I don’t think it would fly unless we could forbid anyone over 40 from reading it. That wouldn’t be fair.
I have to admit that there are a lot of plotlines that I wish could have been undone, especially some of those characters that died and the burning down of the K Mansion, but somehow LJB showed us that Qwill was able to get over it and move on. It gives us a little hint of what dealing with grief and loss is all about, and judging from some of our contributors here, the lessons are helpful and healing.
I am listening now to The Cat Who Came to Breakfast. It is amazing the nuances you pick up when listening rather than reading. I can only hope that 60 whiskers was a dream. Why get rid of Liz Hart? And in such an aburt way. I can accept Polly doing something out of character and leaving. People do things at this age that are sometimes out of character. If I was single I could see myself doing something like that and shocking my kids. I wish the books could continue and we could see how Derrick Cuttlebrink will handle growing up and aging, Clayton Robinson could grow up and move to Moose county. Maybe would would get to know Jr. Goodwinters children as they age. Polly could come back years after being in Paris and regret losign Qwill. He would be with someone else by then. All sorts of possibilities. Maybe Oonosh, Qwilleran could date Oonosh. I just wish it could go on and on. And what to rebuild on the site of the burned apple barn? Who knows?
Trivia question game anyone?
I’m game: How tall is Derek Cuttlebrink?
How tall is Derek…….hummmm I can’t remember…seems he is around 6′5″?
Next trivia:
l. Name the four houses Polly has lived in?
Bonus: Name the 5th house (the one she never moved into)
2. Who was the intended target of the bomber of the Old Pickax Hotel?
3. Joyce who is young and tall enough to play Derek in a tv show of the cat who??? I cannot think of anyone
Well, Robin, I’m glad you assigned me the easy one because I drew a complete blank on the first two questions. As far as my own question: How tall is Derek Cuttlebrink? He is 6′8″. Who would be right to play him in a movie? I don’t know many actors who are that tall. How about Matt Bonner of the San Antonio Spurs? He’s a little taller (I think he’s 6′10″) but he has the charming All American boy look to him. Or maybe I’ve been watching too much basketball. So on to another trivia question:
In addition to Koko, Qwill inheirited a dictionary from his first landlord (in the series, that is), Montclemens. What use did Qwill make of this dictionary?
Wow Derek is tall. The tallest man I know in real life is my husband. He is 6′7″.
The dictionary was used for a scratching pad, and in an early book Qwill and Koko used it for word games.
Polly’s houses:
Cottage at McGregors farm
Garage Apt. behind the Gage mansion
Lynette’s house on Pleasant St.
*never lived in house she attempted to build on Trevelyan Rd behind the barn
Condo at Indian Village
Bomber meant to kill his wife/exwife Oonosh
What fun!
New trivia question:
What color did Mildred use to much of when decorating her lake house near Mooseville.
YELLOW
Barnes and Noble phone line said the new book (Cat Who Smelled Smoke) is delayed until June 09. booohooo.
I want another book. Just one more. I miss Qwill and the cats. I want to hear more about Elizabeth’s death. I forgive Polly. I vow to accept Barbara without criticism. If only I can have one more book. Perhaps we could finally get to know Jodie Goodwinter. Maybe some of the jailed theives and murderers might get paroled and come back. I can never get enough of sweet Lori Bamba. I just know we could be good friends if she were real. Just one more book. I want Clayton to move to Pickax and go to MCCC and help Qwill solve a mystery. I wish If only I could have one more book so that I could stroll around Park Circle and hear what Fran and Susan are doing these days. And Dwight, unlucky in love….needs a mate. Just one more book…….
Iam glad that they are at least going to release the new book even though we have to wait until June. I miss Qwill and the cats too. I also want to find out about the barn and why it burned along with so many of the un-answered questions that have been left after the lat book. I really hope that LJB has someone to take up the reins should something happen and she can no longer continue.
I am wondering who will inherit Elizabeth Hart’s money. Did she leave it to Derek and make him a millionaire. Did she leave some to charity and the community taking a page from Qwill’s book. Or did she perhaps leave it ti Qwill as her father figure? Derek becoming a millionaire could lead to alot of story lines.
I put a commentary on the posting for “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers”, and Laura informs me that all you that commented here probably won’t be notified of it, so I am letting you know that I have a new post under the blogs on that title.
In the meantime, a trivia question from “60 Whiskers”–Can you name Q’s three loftiest ambitions? Hint: it is mentioned on the first page of the print book.
I got no takers for my trivia question: Can you name Q’s three loftiest ambitions?
Thus, I will give the answer myself: First, play first second base with the Chicago Cubs. Second, to act on the Broadway stage. Third, and later in life, to write for the New York Times. Well, the Moose County Something is close.
I am only on “Went up the Creek” but already dreading not having anymore to read after “Whiskers”. Are there other mystery series which may be similar (besides Agatha)??? I think if Quill really loved someone he would share his entire life with them, including Koko’s abilities!!! It’s been a long winder in Illinois!
I think after Polly washes her hair, organizes her spring wardrobe and returns to her senses she will be back in Quill’s life for a last book.
hi i’m mys from manila, philippines. i came across your site to check on new releases of ljb. sadly, i haven’t read ljb’s last two books and also patiently awaiting for her next book (hopefully not the last) in the series. i’ve been hooked to “the cat who series..” by serendipity. my aquaintance with qwill, koko & yumyum grew as a quest, for my copies of the series is almost complete by patiently rummaging in every booksale shop i visit for the last 7 years. it’s the thrill of finally finding her books and the pleasure of reading and re-reading them made it all worthwhile. thanks and more power.
Welcome Mys from the Phillipines! MYS has a point. The reading and rereading of LJB books is part of the joy of it. And I also rummaged in used book stores trying to fill out my collection. It is not easy to do, as her books sell out fast!
And by the way, about who would play Qwill if they made a movie? I saw Nick Nolte with dark hair and a full moustache this weekend in some rerun, and the first thing I thought was “That’s Qwill!”
i love the Cat Who books. Please tell me , they are not discontinuing them are they.
I love the books, I just started reading, i have read 2 and listened to two. i have never been more interested in any other book. I love Qwil and the cats and the people of pickax. the books bring me SANITY.
It is amazing that so many people (including myself) take refuge in a series of books where at least one person dies in each book. Yet there is sanity here. Pickax, Qwill, the cats, the community, all make sense and bring a sense of peace to the reader. It’s like taking a very long relaxing Tai Chi class.
Will the series end? That is a matter of some speculation. LJB is closing in on her mid-’90s and she may want at some time to retire. Our best hope is that she has lots of notes regaring future installments that she can pass on to a worthwhile successor.
What about Clarissa? They introduced her, she seemed to have a lot of potential as a new character, and then she up and moves away. It almost seemed like Liz was killed off to make room for a romance for Clarrisa and Dereck but then nothing else was said about her…
I have been reading the series for years. A few weeks ago, I decided to start again at the beginning. Am now on …Brought Down the House. Just a few more to go. I, too, was very disappointed in …60 Whiskers. Burn down the barn??!! How could they!! But I have to admit that I could have smacked Polly a few times in earlier books, so perhaps her departure could be tolerated; however, I can’t believe she left Brutus and Catta! I was involved with a Humane Society for several years, and it’s just plain mean to dump pets who have been members of a family for years. I hope it will all be resolved in …Smelled Smoke. A bad dream? One can only hope. Wikipedia says LBJ was born in 1913, which would make her a venerable 96 this year. Thank you LJB for so many hours of good reading.
Sorry, of course I meant LJB not LBJ…..old habits die hard.
Welcome, miamigal, to the LJB (not LBJ–yes old habits–were you around in the ’60s?–die hard.) I agree with your assessment of Polly’s behavior toward her cats. Most of us could no more dump our pets than we could dump our children. This makes me wonder if it would be possible to bring Polly back because her past behavior has made her an unsympathetic character. I wonder if, like Agatha Christie with Hercule Poirot, LJB just got sick and tired of Polly, so she engineered an unforgiveable sin that would effectively remove Polly from the action.
Derek and Clarissa–that would be an interesting match. I liked the Derek / Liz Hart match, however, and agree with Robin Thorn that it was incomprehensible why LJB did Liz in with just a couple of sentences about an auto accident (The Cat Who Dropped a Bombsheell–Chapter 16) then never followed up with Derek.
Oh yes, and I saw Tom Sellek on TV the other day, and I think he might make a good Qwill, but I think I still lean toward Nick Nolte. If they wanted a younger Qwill, what about Nicholas Cage with moustache? Cage has the most sympathetic eyes in the business.
I always pictured Qwill as more “Mr. Belvedere” looking. Or, who is the guy who used to play The White Shadow. I think he would be good, too.
Hmmm…Tracy. I pictured Mr. Belvedere as rather prissy for Qwill’s tastes. But Ken Howard, who played “The White Shadow” would be an attractive Qwill. He would certainly have the build for it, although I never pictured Qwill as blond. (However, there is hair dye. Alan Rickman is apparently blond, but I always pictured him with black hair, a la “Snape” of “Harry Potter” fame, for the role of “The Black Moth.” For anyone who has not seen “The White Shadow” think of a taller, broader, more athletic, less manic version of Simon Baker, who is tearing up the small screen as “The Mentalist.”
I just finished watching the latest Jesse Stone movie as well, and really think that Tom Selleck would be the best choice for Qwill. He has the sympathetic eyes, soft tone, and charisma to carry the role perfectly. If Ricky Lake can do a serviceable job as Harry Harrison, in the horribly butchered Disney version of Wish You Were Here, then I know that an actor of such talent as Tom Selleck would do our Qwill justice
The character of Jesse Stone is just how I picture Qwill already.
Welcome, Pappa Hodge. You have a convincing argument about Tom Sellek. I might add that like Qwill, he is aging gracefully and he has a very approachable personality, more so than Nick Nolte (although the latter can be quite sympathetic –see “Down and Out in Beverly Hills.”) So now if we can get them to start making “Cat Who” movies, we’ll be all set.
Robin, I hope you realize what a thread you have started! Not only amy I looking for an actor to play Qwill, but I have been researching who should play The Scarlet Pimpernel and The Black Moth!
I wholeheartedly agree with the idea of Tom Selleck playing Qwill. From the time I read the first book in the series he is the only actor I thought of for the role. He has the height, the talent and absolutely the perfect moustache! Wonder how he feels about cats?
Oh, that’s funny, Pat! I hadn’t really thought about cat interaction. It would be hysterical to see Tom Sellek as the quintessential cat lover. At least he doesn’t have to talk baby talk to the cats, as Qwill would find that against his dignity.
I think Tom Selleck would be purfect for the part. I am lucky enough to have a real life Qwill as my partnerand just got him reading the books (oh boy!)
I didn’t care for Polly and her self-centered ways, always taking Qwill for granted and I liked to think that at the end of the day Quill and I fed the cats, read the books, sipped strong coffee then climbed the ramp to bed together!
lol, what fun! Someone on another board said they pictured “Laura Bush” as the perfect polly!!! If only she was an actress. Poor Polly, she has not had alot of sympathy from Cat Who readers, since she decided to stay in france. I am listening to Cardinal on cd in my car this week and in this book she gets cozy with a horse trainner in Lockmaster and Qwill gets quite jealous, in spite of the fact he is always saying “she” is the one who is jealous. Happy reading! Robin
I hope you know what you have started. I just published a blog here on the site about who should play The Black Moth, and have been cogitating on who should be The Scarlet Pimpernel. For the latter, for some reason, I keep coming up with members of the San Antonio Spurs Basketball team, perhaps because he is tall and of powerful build.
To tell you the truth, I pictured Maggie Smith as Polly. I guess she’s a little too old, but the demeanor fits. No affront to Maggie Smith. She is one of the best actresses on the planet. Of course, we could go with Meryl Streep a la “Devil Wears Prada.” Yes, this is great fun!
Who would play Amanda Goodwinter?
Meryl Streep would be good as long as she playing her frumpy and caustic! I would love to say some of the things that woman said to peoples faces.
Oh, Amanda Goodwinter is a live one! Good question! What about Shirley McClaine? Olympia Dukakis (or is she too nice?)
Either Shirley or Olympia would be a good Amanda! I think Michael J. Fox would have been the perfect Jr. Goodwinter years ago, but he is to old and now ill. What about Mary Steenbergen for Polly? And Holland Taylor for Polly, Maggie Sprinkle or Violet. Conchetta Farrell for Lois. I have heard someone suggest Jane Curtain for Polly but the voice would be wrong. Maybe she could be a good Amanda, now that she is older. This is so fun
Anyone who would like to chat about the Cat Who books, meet me 3/20/09 at 8pm central time at this site http://teachers.net/chatrooms/one/ and we can move to room two and have a cat who chat.
Oh, what a neat idea! I wish I could, but I am keeping my granddaughter tonight and we’re baking pumpkin pies. I hope whoever attends will let me know what goes forth.
By the way, I think Mary Steenbergen would make a great Polly. She’s lovely, and personable, but with her there is always a question: “Is this who she really is, or is she getting ready to stab me in the back?” And Michael J. Fox would be the perfect Junior Goodwinter. No matter that he is old and ill. We can just remember him as he was in “Back to the Future”. That is the fun of this exercise. We can pick anyone of any age, because what matters is what we visualize when we read.
Sorry you cannot chat tonight Joyce, but grankids come FIRST. Teachers.net is a really nice chat for teachers and others interested in education.
I have only just discovered The Cat Who … books. I tutor Algebra/Calculus at Cottey College, an upscale girls jr. college and last Jan. I ran into the library to get something to read between students and found a trilogy of The Cat Who Moved a Mountain, …Blew the Whistle, and …Said Cheese. Well, by the time I finished I was hooked. Then, I printed a list and started at the beginning. I’m up to #22, …Robbed a Bank.
I’m upset now that the last 3 are a little different and “…60 Whiskers” seems depressing. However, I am glad to see I;m not the only one who sees Tom Selleck as Qwill in I hoped a weekly (ala “Muder She Wrote”) TV series. But then we would need more writers, since it would go through the 30 books quickly.
Thanks
Welcome, Linda. Of course you know you are in for a treat! I would not worry about the last three novels being “depressing”. I re-read them, and I think the “depressing” part may be due a lot to our rising expectations and the fact that we realize that the series may be ending soon unless LJB can pass the mantle to another deserving author. By far, the most depressing of the LJB novels is surprisingly one of my favorites: “The Cat Who Saw Red”. You obviously got past that one and kept reading, so keep on enjoying the books!
I JUST FINISHED “TALKED TURKEY” AND I DO NOT THINK THE ENDING WAS IN LINE WITH WHAT QUILL WOULD HAVE DONE. HOW COULD HE LEAVE A KNOWN MURDERER IN THE GAZEBO AND THEN BRING IN KOKO & LEAVE THEM ALONE. HE KNEW THE MAN HAD A GUN. HE THEN PROCEEDED TO TELL HIM THAT HIS ACOMPLICE WAS DEAD & THERE WAS NO HOPE FOR HIM. MAKES NO SENSE TO ME. ????
Interesting question, Patty. I may have to break my slow progression through the series, backwards, to reread this book and see what gives! I love to read a book, especially an LJB book, when I have something specific to look for. It is then that I discover the careful way in which LJB weaves a plot and characterizes her players.
Patty every time I re read Turkey I wonder that same thing. Qwill would not have left koko to be shot after he saw the gun. When he went back to the house he would have scooped up koko and taken him with him. That has always bothered me as “out of character”, but then I was thinking one day, we ALL as humans do things out of character on occasion, so this just makes Qwill more human.
MAYBE SOMEONE ELSE WROTE ‘TALKS TURKEY.” THE ENDING IS NOT AT ALL PLAUSIBLE.
My Mother told me that LJB died last year and I’m sure she was having help in putting together the last of her books. I hope whoever it is will adhere more to the original feel of the books. The burning of the barn as well as most of the historic houses that were the subject of the story is a strange way to carry the storline to an end – and too predictable. We like twists at the end and somewhat happy endings, right?
I googled LJB and did not see anything about her death, although I did come across Robert Kaplow’s spoof, “The Cat Who Killed Lilian Jackson Braun”. The book had only a two star out of five rating, and judging strictly from the synopsis, it didn’t sound like anything a devoted LJB fan would read. However that is beside the point. Did anyone else come across news of her death? I was under the impression she was very much alive.
I have not heard that LJB passed away. I belong to 6 other sites and webrings on LJB and no one is reporting her death. Just that she is very old and has been in the hospital. I like when the books end out of character. People do out of character things every day, just listen to the news or talk to a woman whose husband ran off with an 18 year old after 50 years of marriage. That is part of human nature. So when books like Turkey have Qwill do something out of character or like 60 whiskers ……..has Polly acting out of character I don’t have a problem with it. Humans do strange things sometimes. I just love the books. I love LJB’s writing. I have not grand expectations for Smelled Smoke, after the last few books. If we get another book fine, if not, I will continue to listen to them on tape the rest of my life. I will put one on as soon as I get off the puter!
I have been listening to “Underground” while cleaning house today. What a great little book. I love the books set at the lake. I wish we had more of them. And I find myself enjoying the books where Polly leaves for the summer. Qwill is so free to meet interesting people and get into adventures with her out of town. I do not often hear the “Underground” is someone’s favorite, but it really is action packed from beginning to end. And who can forget Iggie and Mrs. Ascot. Two great characters.
Thanks for your comments, Robin. I was happy to hear that you have not heard anything of LJB’s death in any of your research. Long may she live! What a great idea, listening to the audio books as you clean house! It’s a great way to get your exercise, clean the house and enjoy it at the same time! I guess I’ll have to put two cents in for my favorite: “The Cat Who Went to Breakfast”. I loved the Scottish history lesson and the storm was so exciting! I think it was nice to see Polly and Qwill get away together as well. I am still reading “Turkey” in an effort to determine if Qwill was out of character. Will return my verdict when I finish.
Strictly my opinion, but I think LJB was writing her last book in the series. The way it ended, with Polly staying in Scotland, the apple barn burning down, and Qwill getting a new girlfriend, all seem to indicate the end of the series to me. Ms. Braun is 96, after all, and it wouldn’t surprise me if she’s ready to retire. Sure loved her books, though.
Hello, Joyce, from another Joyce. Polly stayed in Paris, not Scotland. Your idea of her writing her last book does have merit, but why would Amazon have “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” listed as the next book in the series? I agree, we have had a wonderful series from her, and I will miss it terribly.
Joyce, how did the pumpkin pie with the grands turn out?
I am a member of the facebook group: People Who Want to Live in Moose County. If you are on facebook, just do a search for it and join in on the discussion.
I have been thinking of reading “Closet” again. I consider it a masterpiece. Plots, subplots, so much humor. The halloween scene on Goodwinter Blvd and Qwill with his apples……..good stuff. The scene with Qwill dressed in a to tight Santa suite and going up a ladder……..priceless. The scene of him speeding across the ice with the dog team……scary. The scene where he discovers Euphonia’s illigetimate daughter, facinating. The scenes where he gets to know the laughing Mrs. Robinson……very funny. What a book and a murder too.
Robin, sorry it took so long to reply . I got behind in my reviews and had to pay some attention to The Black Moth and Scarlet Pimpernel. Our get-togethers with the grands are always a great success; however, the granddaughter decided she’d rather play with the new basketball I got her than bake pies. Guess I can’t fault her. I just got back from Kung Fu class.
I JUST FINISHED “WENT BANANAS” AND WAS EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED IN THE ENDING. THERE WASN’T ONE. IT LEFT EVERYTHING TO SUPPOSITION. I FEEL, AS OTHERS HAVE EXPRESSED, THAT THERE IS A DIFFERENT AUTHOR. WHERE IS THE MYSTERY? WHO SOLVES IT? WHO WAS THE SNIPER WHO SHOT ALDEN WADE’S 1ST WIFE? WHERE DID THE STEP-SON VANISH TO? DID ALDEN KILL RONNIE DICKSON OR JUST SUPPLY HIM WITH DRUGS? DID VIOLET HIBBARD DIE OF NATURAL CAUSES? WHO STOLE THE BOOK? ALDEN? AND WHY????IF SO, WHY HAVE IT OUT IN PLAIN SIGHT? AND NO ONE IN THE WHOLE TOWN COULD FIGURE OUT THE DATE FOR THE SESQUICENTENNIAL? THAT LEAVES IT AS AN AVAILABLE TOPIC FOR THE NEXT BOOK. THE LITTLE BLURB ABOUT THE BOOK STATES, “KOKO FINDS A BUNCH OF CLUES WHEN AN OUT OF TOWN ACTOR DIES MYSTERIOUSLY”….WHAT CLUES? WHAT ANSWERS??? WHO DONE IT???? P.S. I DO NOT REMEMBER SEEING ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS IN HER EARLIER WORKS, JUST DEDICATION TO THE HUSBAND WHO…..CALL ME VERY SKEPTICAL…….
Yes Bananas is disappointing. You might as well not read Bombshell or 60 Whiskers if Bananas concerned or upset you. Go back and read some of the older books again. They are a joy the second and third time around.
I just heard from a friend that Amazon cancelled her Smelled Smoke book order as unavailable. Sad news.
SOMEONE NEEDS TO CONTINUE WITH THE SERIES, EVEN IF THEY HAVE TO CHANGE EVERY CHARACTERS NAME BY 1 LETTER!!!! THE CATS MUST GO ON. ANY VOLUNTEERS? WOULD BE BIG BUCKS. WE SHOULD ALL CO-AUTHOR!!!
Hi Folks–just intruding on your convo for a second. I’ve started a forum on this site, in large part due to this lively thread. If you want to head over to http://girlebooks.com/forum, you can start up your own topics there on LJB or anything else, in a multi-thread format. I’ll see you over there!
So has Ms. Brawn passed away or is the whole Cat Who series stopped with book 29 “60 Wiskers”? What is the status?
Like many I love “The Cat Who . . .” series and have just about drove book sellers crazy trying to find “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” – thank you for setting me straight. I would love to see the series continue, only if whoever wrote it – continued Mrs. Braun style. It is unique and wonderful reading. I also own a siamese cat and well understand how she comes up with some of their actions.
Welcome, CC. Yes, we are all bummed out about the apocryphal “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke”. Maybe it will show up one day. In the meantime, hope you’ll visit and comment in our new forum:
http://girlebooks.com/forum
I’ve been reading the Cat Who books since 1990 I always knew that the day would come that I wouldn’t have any new Cat Who books to read.What I think is going on is that Mrs.Braun doesn’t have the book finished yet.She is 96 years old this year and I pray when I’m at that age I can still write my name and here she is writing books.Between her age and health she’s just not able too finish it.I don’t think that we’ll even see The Cat Who Smelled Smoke and it a shame she is a great writer and she has given us many years of enjoyment from those great books.
Welcome to the blog, Barb. Since we figured that LJB may be very close to retirement (although some people insist she’s deceased) I have been reading her books closely to see what actually goes into them. She has a very unique style, and she puts a lot into her books. When reading, you don’t realize it because the prose flows so easily, and the reader seems to inhabit Qwill’s character. This poses a delimma for us fans on two counts: first, can she keep up her productivity? It looks like she has slowed down if not stopped entirely. Second: can anyone hope to pick up where she left off? Were I an author picked to follow in her footsteps, I would need to study the entire series at least six months before I could begin to do what she did. She knows so much about gourmet food, interior design, literature, architecture, natural disasters, weather, geography, fashion, a host of other topics and of course, human nature! Just because she made it look easy doesn’t mean it was.
I love all of the books! But which one is the one where the barn burns down?
Welcome, Bobbie! Spoiler Alert! If you have not read the entire series and don’t want to have an ending given away, read no further!
Now, for your answer, Bobbie. Read the following at your own risk: The barn burned down in “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers.”
It is good to see so much interest in the books and so many posts. I am listening to “Closet” again and also in my camper this past weekedn listed to the cd of “Wasn’t There”. The terror and fear when YumYum was missing is so real!
I’m getting a lot of good posts on the forum
http://girlebooks.com/forum
enumerating the deaths in the series, a trivia quesion posed by Praline. Make sure to check it out!
Hi, This is what I think about
TCHSS. I’m guessing and would like
to read comments.
Agatha Christie killed Poirot and
Marple in her last books. This was
done so nobody will write about them after she is gone. Well, maybe
that’s what LJB did in SS. I am
also guessing that the publishers
plan to find another writer who will continue the TCH series and
that’s why they haven’t published
the book – maybe they plan to change the end. Well, what do you
think ?
DOES ANYONE KNOW THE NAME OF THE BOOKS WHERE AGATHA KILLS MISS MARPLE & HERCULE??? THANKS!!!
Last case of Miss Marple.
Last case of Hercule Poitot.
Gaya, point well taken. Maybe Qwill was supposed to be (shudder) killed in “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” because LJB is unable or unwilling to continue with the series. Perhaps her managers are waiting to decide whether to replace her or end the series. Thus, LJB may have had two alternate endings written, and all they have to do is plug in the one that fits their plans.
Gaya and Patty:
Check out this GirlEBooks review to find out Poirot’s fate.
http://girlebooks.com/blog/free-ebooks/the-mysterious-affair-at-styles-by-agatha-christie/
Miss Marple met her maker in 1976 in “Sleeping Murder,” published 36 years after the story was written. Agatha Christie had passed away a few months before Miss Marple. The story had been locked in a bank vault all this time, preparing for this eventuality.
I have just finished re-reading the entire Cat Who series and taking note of all that happens in TCWHSS. It appears that Ms.Braun was definately planning to close the series: burning down the barn, removing Polly and her cats and bringing in a new lady in Qwill’s life. I noted that Qwill was not really upset when the barn burned down. There’s no reason to think she’d have to kill off Qwill to do this. However, there are way too many unanswered questions that need attention before her last book is published.
Hi! Carolyn!
You’re right about the unanswered questions and about the way LJB seemed to be closing out the series in “60 whiskers”.
I hope you’ll visit the forum:
http://girlebooks.com/forum/lilian-jackson-braun/
There is a special topic for Unanswered questions, and I’d love to see you add some of your questions to the list.
JUST FINISHED “DROPPED A BOMBSHELL”. THE CHAPTERS HAVE SPACES SO THERE ARE MANY PAGES WITH NO WORDS ON THEM. WHAT REASON TO KILL DEREK’S GIRLFRIEND? NO EXPLANATION OF WHICH WAY SHE WAS COMING OR GOING ON BRIDGE? THE BACK COVER SAYS THE LEDFIELD’S GO MISSING. THAT IS NEVER THE CASE. WHAT GIVES??? WHAT BOMBSHELL? KOKO JUST DROPS ON SOMEONE’S HEAD, WHICH HE HAS DON E IN PREVIOUS BOOKS. THE POSTSCRIPT FROM THE AUTHOR WAS ALSO NEW. WHO IS WRITING THESE LATEST BOOKS?????
Hi, Patty. I think your questions would be appropriate in the “unanswered questions” discussion in the Girlebooks Forum:
http://girlebooks.com/forum/lilian-jackson-braun/unanswered-questions-in-the-cat-who-series/
Perhaps we can all together figure out some of the answers. Till then, it does feel good to sound out about it–I think.
I’m still waiting for my library to get the latest BOOK and I’m getting withdrawal symptoms!
Hi, Nell. If you are waiting for “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” you may be waiting for quite a while. We are not sure whether is is going to be published or not. It appears that there is some holdup with regards to the book, which was supposed to be out several months ago.
In the meantime, check out the LJB forum on this site, and read some of the fan fiction. Follow this link and look at the stories under “Qwill…” and “A Story from Polly’s Point of View.”
Oops. Trying once more to add that link:
Fan Forum
All the time I was reading the last book I felt that Mrs. Braun was suffering from some illness. Besides Polly leaving and the barn being burnt down there were many other weird things written. I figured it was her age and expected that she wouldn’t be able to write anything else readable although it looks like she tried and the publishers realized it wasn’t printable. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if the book was finished and gave us a extremely good ending..perhaps Quill going after Polly, then getting married with all of Pilax there and then going on a spectacular honeymoon and when returning back to Pilax the airplane crashes and they both die…or maybe they go abroad for a year and take all the cats with them and they die in the crash also..or perhaps KoKO survives and thus a new series begins by a different author. NOw if I was allowed to write it I would start with the plane crash and go forward with Koko’s story but also refer to the past….
Carolyn, I hope you will try your hand at creating a story on the Fan Forum.
The link is here
Use the “add topic” button to create a space for your story and start the story in the “topic message” box. When you want to add to your story, locate your topic and use the “Post Reply” button to add more of your story.
I think I would rather have a happy ending, rather than a plane crash & have them die. I read for pleasure, there is enough sadness in real life. After having read all the books, and most of them several times, the characters are almost like friends. I really do hate to see the series end, tho.
Kayla is so right !
We, the readers and rereaders
deserve a happy ending for our
friends from THE CAT WHO !!!
Hi, Kayla and Gaya. I’m with you. A story such as Qwill’s should not end in tragedy! By the way, we have just added a new Live Chat feature and Anne is trying to get together a live chat at 7:15 PM (U. S. Central Standard Time). You can find the live chat feature in the forum. The link is here:
http://girlebooks.com/forum/lilian-jackson-braun-fan-forum/new-live-chat-feature/
Oh, and use the link on the first comment (highlighted in yellow) to navigate to the chat.
I have read every book up to Turkey. I am having a terrible time in getting the rest of the series in Australia. Anyway, I have the same feeling as to who is penning some of the later books – I suppose getting into the late 80’s and early 90’s would do any author no favour. Even though I know what happens in the next four books, I will still purchase them and read them (if I can even acquire them), as I really am a great fan of hers and would very much like to complete my collection. Glad to cyber-hear that there is a great fan club base out there. These novels mean a lot to me, since they were my saviour during my graduate years at university!!!!!!!!!
Diana, I don’t know if you are looking for ebooks or hard copies, but there are several sources for both. There are links at the top of this page that will take you to Amazon or Diesel books where you can get hard copies as well as electronic books. In addition, you can get various electronic formats at palmdigitalmedia.com and you can get discounted hard copies at abebooks.com (which is now owned by Amazon.) Abebooks is an excellent source for hard-to-find books.
Joyce, thank you very much for the helpful information. I will give them a go and see if they deliver to Australia. I’ve already tried Putnams and another publisher I can’t recall, neither of which allow for Overseas delivery. When all else fails, I’ll return to the dark ages of picking up the phone, Ha Ha Ha. G’Day to all in the US………
Last year a friend of mine gave me The Cat Who Said Cheese, and I was hooked.I went out and bought the first book and I am now halfway through the last one. I will miss losing myself in the life of JQ and his furry kids.I too wish that someone would pick up the series. I think it would be interesting if Polly returned and they both had a new attitude ,perhaps getting married and becoming a 4 cat crime solving family.Like the Thin Man series but better.The writer could develop an interesting interplay within the extended cat family.JQs escapades would be delightfull no matter who the love interest was, but as a 50 something gal I find it charming that he was attracted and loyal to a “mature” woman.Very refreshing!
Welcome Darice! It seems we all got hooked by a stray LJB book. I picked up a three-novel volume for a dollar at a used book store, and ended buying the rest of the set. Now I’m working on collecting the whole set for my electronic library.
You Gals should try the Donna Andrews books starting with Murder With Peacocks! They are very clever and wonderful characters too. I hope we get to read Cat Who Smelled Smoke but I hope it is better than the last few. Fun reading!
I LOST MY WONDERFUL HUSBAND SIX YEARS AGO. HE WAS AN AVID READER AND OUR HOUSE IS FULL OF BOOKS. LAST YEAR I WAS DIAGNOSED WITH RECTAL CANCER. IT WAS DEPRESSING THINKING I WOULD HAVE TO GO THROUGH THE TREATMENTS ALONE. WHILE CLEANING HOUSE I CAME ACROSS A BOOK TITLED THE CAT WHO COULD READ BACKWARDS. THIS LITTLE PAPERBACK HAD BEEN SITTING ON THE SHELF FOR GOD KNOWS HOW LONG, PURCHASED AT A YARD SALE BY MY HUSBAND. I STARTED READING IT AND IMMEDIATELY FELT MY HUSBAND HAD GUIDED ME TO THE BOOK TO GET ME THROUGH MY TREATMENTS. LIKE OTHERS I BECAME ADDICTED AND HAVE ALL THE BOOKS WRITTEN SO FAR. THEY BROUGHT ME THROUGH A VERY LOW POINT IN MY LIFE. I HOPE SOMEONE WILL CONTINUE THE SAGA.
Pat, your post brought me to tears. I am so sorry for you and your late husband. Isn’t it strange, however, that those who have gone before us have a way of reaching out to us in surprising ways? And isn’t it amazing that your attention should be captured by a book with such a strange title? I am so happy that the series has brought you through a very low period. Like the character that the books describe, the books themselves are friends to all. Bless you and take care. We hope to hear from you again.
Okay, it’s time to re-read “60 Whiskers” and find out where it is that Qwill might have passed out from smoke inhilation in the barn, as it was burning, and dreamed the ending. I’m uncomfortable about someone else taking over the series. I am thrilled to have so many wonderful books, as it is. They tried that with other authors and it usually just doesn’t stack up. Qwill rushing to Paris to claim his woman reminds me of Mr. Big ~ smile. There is a transcript of an interview with Miss Lilian somewhere on the web where she even mentions Tom Sellick as Qwill. That seals the deal, as far as I’m concerned. Stephen King did the same thing in one of his books, Duma Key, by saying a character has some of the same qualities as James Earl Jones. Why is the forum girlie books. God, I’ve never considered these books “chick books.” Love that you all are here. Many prayers to Ms. Braun!!!!!!!!!!
Dearest Pat, As with Joyce, your entry brought me to tears. I am hoping you have all the support you need. I do agree with you in that your beloved late husband guided you to something he felt you needed. I can relate to that, in the sense that The Cat Who series has elevated me in my times of need very often. The novels have always been very uplifting in low periods of my life, and, yes, Joyce, how has so much joy been dispersed by such a title? How is your treatment going and hope to hear from you again. Many greetings and good health from Australia. Kind Regards and G’Day, Diana
Pat and Diana, I got a chill this morning reading a review in Wall Street Journal of the book “The Third Man Factor”. This “Factor” describes a phenomenon in which a person, either bereft or in danger, feels that he or she is not alone. It mentions the reaching out beyond time of loved ones who have already passed over and have made their presence felt through some sign that may only have significance between the two loved ones but is unmistakable in its meaning. I immediately thought of you, Pat, and “The Cat Who Could Read Backwards.” I have included a link here to the review, although I am not sure it will work without a Wall Street Journal login; so please forgive if you get a “not found” message on this.
OOps! forgot to include the link to the book mentioned above.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204884404574361631588827614.html
Hi, Vanessa. I think Laura’s original intention in calling this “Girlebooks” is to emphasize that this is a site for ebooks “by the gals”. Although it doesn’t preclude having “chick lit” on the site, the original intention is to cover books written by women. I don’t think anyone could call books by Virginia Wolfe, Willa Cather or Edith Wharton “Chick Lit”. And the adventures and mysteries written by the likes of Emmuzka Orczy, Georgette Heyer, Dorothy Sayers, Agatha Christie and Anna Katharine Green are all about men, so that would exclude them from the “Chick Lit” genre as well. I think the site is intended to serve people who love literature in all its forms. Focusing on women’s writing just narrows down an unbelievably wide field to something a little more manageable. And of course, we just published our first review of a book written by a man, the macho Sci Fi writer, Ben Bova, and called “Cyberbooks”. Link: http://girlebooks.com/blog/book-reviews/cyberbooks-by-ben-bova/
JOYCE AND DIANA, THANK YOU FOR YOUR KIND WORDS. I CONSTANTLY FEEL THE PRESENCE OF MY HUSBAND. HE ALWAYS SAID HE WOULD NEVER LEAVE ME. I AM NOT TOTALLY ALONE, HOWEVER. I SHARE OUR HOME WITH TEN (10) CATS AND A BISON FRISE. MY CANCER TREATMENTS ARE COMPLETED AND SO FAR SO GOOD. GOD KNOWS I AM CARING FOR 11 LITTLE SOULS AND HAS GRANTED ME AN EXTENSION. ALTHOUGH NONE OF MY LITTLE DARLINGS ARE SIAMESE, SOME DO HAVE KOKO’S ABILITY TO MANIPULATE ME TO DO THEIR BIDDING. I FIND LILIAN BRAUN’S STYLE CAPTIVATING AND INTRIGUING WITHOUT BEING OFFENSIVE. I AM SO GLAD I FOUND THIS FORUM. I ENJOY READING ALL THE COMMENTS.
MEA CULPA. MY BICHON FRISE DREW MY ATTENTION TO THE MISSPELLING OF HER BREEDS NAME. FORGIVE ME ISABELLA.
However you spell it, those dogs are adorable. They are probably also as demanding as my rat terrier. I also have four cats, none Siamese, although my Tortoise Shell female acts like Yum Yum. You are right. With pets, you are never really alone. They tend to gather around you when you grab a moment’s repose, and make the surroundings richer for their presence. Please keep us posted as to how you are doing. Also, in case you haven’t discovered it, check out our fan forum:
http://girlebooks.com/forum/
We have some very talented writers trying their hand at continuing the Qwill saga. I love their different approaches to what will happen after “60 Whiskers”. There are also book suggestions for people who are undergoing “Cat Who” Withdrawal, a common syndrome here at Girlebooks.
G’Day Joyce, Pat and all other pet people. There is no question that our four-legged children make our lives so much richer and sometimes, quite frankly, bearable. We have had a Siamese named Sascha and that boy was a character, a lot like Koko, in fact. He certainly had his own mind and saw to it that you knew what he was thinking. We currently have an English Field Cocker Spaniel named Gwindolyn, who is not like any Cocker I have ever met!!!!!!! She is truly a Miss Smarty Pants and the love of our lives. Speaking of the Cat Who Withdrawal, how about we write the new international phase of Qwill’s life – beginning with “The Cat Who Went Down Under”……………….hmmmmm, could be a tax-deductable trip for someone to visit us in Sydney for research. And Pat, do keep in touch to let us know how you are faring. Joyce, I am still trying to obtain the misssing books and Amazon only has paperbacks with the hard copies still unavailble on line. Kind regards to all.
Hi Joyce, I have not talked to you in awhile. I am teaching again and busy all the time. I did add more to the Zoe Lambreth story this afternoon. I had almost forgotten I had started it. I read with great empathy Pat’s story. These little books helped me through a divorce years ago and a lonely time in my life. I am pleased they have helped others like they helped me. Mrs. Braun has given us such a gift. I wish her a speedy recovery and good health.
Diana,
What a capital idea for a Cat Who book. I love the idea of The Cat Who Went Down Under! I have had “The Book of Sydney” sitting on my bookshelf for almost 20 years. I can imagine Qwill with two airline carriers taking his cats to Sydney and having to put up with them on the plane. Perhaps Koko even treats the passengers to his “death howl”. What a trip!
Anne,
Good to see you back. I’m enjoying your story. I was afraid that you had become disaffected with GirleBooks and had moved elsewhere. I was really missing those story installments. I’m glad you found the time to write some more, even if you are teaching again.
Talk about Cat Who taking one through tough times–I may hold the record for being laid off from work: 7 times in five different industries. Through it all, there was “Cat Who.” The lovely thing about working for Girlebooks is that I can read “Cat Who” books as part of my job. And since my daughter owns it, maybe I have more job security.
I just finish reading the entire “Cat Who” series. I was a late starter. My friend is a Librarian for a small town and she lent the books to me three at a time. I, too, have been devasted at the last few books. “60 Whiskers” had nothing but little sayings and night time references in the book – no substance. When there was something to tell – it was all BAD NEWS! Ok so now Quill has a lot of money and can buy anything he wants, he would still be devasted by the burning of his “Barn”. Just the fact that it was arsen and he dislikes unanswered questions. I feel so much a part of QUILL’S family and now I feel a loss that there are no more books – like there was a death in MY family. When I would be out in the evenings, I couldn’t wait to get home to my nightly read of Quill and the cats. I enjoy Janet Evanovich also – so I guess I’ll move on to something else. Now that 2009 is almost over – does anyone know if Ms. Braun is still with us?
There is life after Qwill, albeit not as great a life. Try Donna Andrews “Murder With Peacocks”. There is a whole series of books with Meg Langslow as the main character. She has an oddball family that demands a lot of attention as well as solving the murders that always seem to drop in her lap. The local police act like they don’t appreciate her help but, with her Uncle Horace (often dressed in a gorilla suit) as a local Medical examiner, she gets a lot of inside information and snoops to find the rest. There is a lot of action and so much humor in these books, they are simply delightful!
Bravo, Cindy and Barb, for offering more hints of books that might ameliorate one’s “Cat Who…” withdrawal. I have not read Donna Andrews yet, but I have read Janet Evanovich. The latter has a wonderful sense of humor, and a casual style that should appeal to “Cat Who” fans.
There are three other book series that I as a “Cat Who” addict enjoy they are:
Shirley Rouseau Murphy “Joe Grey Mysteries”
Rita Mae Brown “Mrs Murphy Mysteries”
Gilbert Morris “Jacques & Cleo Cat Detectives”
Also the “Midnight Louis books are good
BJ
Yes, I have read all the Joe Grey and Mrs. Murphy books and they are great too. I’ll look for the Gilbert Morris books to try, Thanks!
You can go to donnaandrews.com to read more about her books
A lady at a used book store in Wisconsin (I was there on vacation) gave me a book for free. She said if I like Janet Evanovich, I would like this lady. Since I have read all of Janet’s Stephanie Plum series (15 so far). This book is called “Girls just wanna have guns” by Toni McGee Causey. I guess the first book is “Charmed and Dangerous” I’m going to start reading it tonight – I’ll let you know if it is any good. Thanks for listening to me.
Cindy
I was checking for any info on The cat who smelled smoke. Loved reading all the comments posted. I’ve been a big fan of LJB, and own 5 cats – each with their own distinct personallities. I, too, hope the barn burning down was maybe just a bad dream. As for Polly leaving, I always hoped her and Quill would get together, but, in my dreams, I am much better suited for him (don’t tell my husband!).
Welcome, Jeannmarie. Maybe someday we all will be reading “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” but who knows when that will be. Like you, I miss the barn. I loved the way the cats enjoyed tearing up and down the ramp. I could see my cats doing the same. What fun it would have been to live in that barn with the smell of apples and the soaring chimney offering an inviting fire in the fireplace. And Qwill there to read to us from some obscure classic.
I have a great little series to recommend.
The Author is Ann George.
Some of the titles are:
Murder at the Bootin’Scootin’ Boogie
Murder on a Bad Hair Day
Murder All in the Family
There are around 7 books in the series and sadly we lost Ann George several years ago to a heart attack. She was the poet lauriat of Alabama at the time. The main characters in these books are two sisters. A shy conservative retired school teacher and her flamboyant, overweight, loud, funny sister and they are in their early sixties. The adventures these two get into are great fun and they solve a murder along the way.
Barb, BJ, Cindy, Vanessa and others, we have been enjoying three new books by LJB fans at this girlebooks site: http://girlebooks.com/forum/lilian-jackson-braun-fan-forum/a-story-from-pollys-point-of-view/page-3/#p485
Please join us and the site also has a live chat feature. Thanks to Laura for this!
I have read 10 or so of Ms. Braun’s books, and really like them. I did just finish the last one, and feel as the rest of you do about it. Several things seemed really odd: Qwill reacted very little to the barn burning. It wasn’t even mentioned that he went out to look at it, and how much damage it sustained. He appeared to have no regrets about what might have been destroyed. The story about the 2 men hanging themselves from the rafters was very random, as teens would say. It almost made Qwill seem a bit creepy, himself. Or, it made one wonder if he would be next. Could that be why the barn was burned?…to keep him from doing so? Could HE have burned it out of irritation at being a museum guide os sorts? Doubt it, but it’s a thought.
Polly was completely out of character…informing Qwill that their relationship was over, by letter. She also had already cut him out of her life before she ever left. And there was way more to her decision to stay in Paris than a job opening up, I thought. A new man was hinted at earlier in the script, when Qwill thought about how much she enjoyed men, themselves.
The book was ended abruptly, too, which was annoying. No wrapping up of the mystery of the bee death, barn-burning, ar Polly.
Very choppy and left one with a sense of being unfulfilled.
Suggestions:
Oust Polly! As comfortable as she was, she was passe. She was interesting at one time, but became all about herself, and that is boring to any man, and at least, to this reader.
Liked the new lady, Barbara. Still artsy, but more modern and exciting.
Needs some drastically new directions to the books, as they are becoming the stuffy ones that are likely to be left on the shelf, gathering dust. Is a great series, but just needs some work, and something more than another communtiy project or two as the background to the murder mystery.
Hi, Ann. I’m glad you brought up the fact that Qwill appeared unruffled at the barn burning. As much as he and the cats loved the barn, the suicides in there made for very bad feng shui. Although the Chinese would probably just remove the mirrors in the place and perhaps do a purification ritual with salt, the burning took care of that much more effectively (although a feng shui practitioner would not recommend it.) However, if we see another Cat Who… mystery, I will miss the fantasy of living in such a rustic, unique place that appeared to suit man as well as beast (or cat as the case may be.)
As far as his unruffled sense about the barn and Polly, I think the answer lies in the first four novels (Read Backwards, Danish Modern, On and Off, Saw Red.) Qwill has been broke, homeless, fired for alcoholism and divorced from a wife who was institutionalized for insanity. In “Saw Red” he learned the love of his life was murdered by her husband after she took most of Qwill’s money. So Polly running off and the barn burning may have seemed minor compared to the problems he had in the past. G. Allan Barter and the K Fund are there to take care of him, so he can take life easy regardless of what it brings, and having experienced the equivalent of winning the lottery, he has cause to be optimistic.
Thanks for the history on the earlier books. I think that I have only read Danish Modern, of those four. I have greatly enjoyed reading the ones that I have gotten to so far.
I didn’t know about Qwill’s background, except for the fortune that he has been given, and how nonchalant he appears to be about it. My comments about Polly, who is likable enough, come from the fact that she seems a bit detached from Qwill emotionally, and though he is not terribly outspoken, he makes it clear how he feels about her. That’s why I would like to see him move on to someone who is a bit more expressive and passionate about him. She seems comfortable, like they are an old married people, and not in the best sense. She seems to take him for granted. Her comment about seeing him when she gets back, after three years, was very insensitive at best, and rude in imo.
Oh, I meant to ask if you are a writer, as I recognize your name. I looked online, but the pic of Joyce McDonald doesn’t look like you. Or, I guess you could be using a false name, lol. I didn’t think of that!
Ann,
Am I a writer? Yes and no. I have spent the past 17 years writing user manuals for computers and information systems, if you can call that writing. I have made a couple of abortive attempts at writing a novel, but seem to enjoy reading other people’s books and writing reviews better than writing my own fiction. Perhaps when I get to be LJB’s age, I will have written, if not The Great American Novel, at least something that more than five people will want to read.
If you Google “K. Joyce McDonald” you will probably see that I also wrote articles on computer operating systems and new technology for APCO magazine, and perhaps a series of articles for “Scene in SA” magazine. The only book I worked on is “Tai Chi for Everyone” which I co-authored with Grandmaster So. (See http://www.taichi-interactive.com)
Joyce, a very nice summary of the first four books in the series and How Qwill’s earlier life events shaped who he became later. Another thing is “if Qwill ages in the books” and I know some don’t think he does, but I do and if he ages, then he thinks differently in his late fifties, early sixties than he did when he was in his early 40s. I am 53 and I already find myself in a different place mentally than when I was younger. He was in his mid forties I believe when he first met Polly and soon after built the barn. over a decade of books have gone by.
I see Anne has written more. I will got to girlebooks fan fiction and add some more to my story “From Polly’s point of view”.
I STILL FEEL QUILL & POLLY NEVER REALLY CONNECTED. HE NEVER FULLY SHARED HIS LIFE WITH ANYONE. HE NEVER TOLD ANY OF THE LADIES IN HIS LIFE ABOUT KOKO’S FULL POWERS. WHILE I PICTURE HIM AS A HUNK WITH MONEY HE STILL SEEMS LOST.
Joyce,
Thanks for the info about your writing. I will look up those things sometime. Don’t feel bad about what you write, as those things are important, too. I used to edit copy for land use planners, and at one time, I also edited copy for insurance forms. Can anyone say, “BORING!!!”? I like to write poetry for my and my family’s enjoyment now, not really knowing if it is good, but feeling greatly fulfilled by expressing myself that way, when I’m in the mood to do so. I just felt motivated and driven to write poetry one day, and I started, and have written since then, usually late at night, unfortunately, since it takes large bites out of my sleep.
Oh, what does the SA stand for? San Antonio?
Hi again, Ann. Yes, “Scene in SA” magazine means “Scene in San Antonio”. APCO by the way means “Alamo PC Organization.” Actually, that is the organization. Its magazine is called “PC Alamode.” I wrote for that particular publication for 13 years.
I admire your poetry writing. Not only is it way beyond my talents. It is also an elective activity. I seldom do anything I’m not forced to do. That is the reason I write reviews for Girlebooks. Laura tells me what to read and gives me a deadline. Helps keep me focused.
My proudest achievement in writing turns out to be a meter-reading software manual that described each process in a space the size of a business card. The whole thing could be printed front and back, folded up and placed in a pocket with the most important process showing so that the meter reader didn’t have to unfold the paper. It’s amazing how many words you can leave out and still get the point across. Meter readers don’t have much time to read anyway. It was a fun activity, and the first thing I pulled out of my portfolio when I interviewed for a new contract.
Sounds like a cool little card!
San Antonio’s a great place to go! We have gone there, as a family, many times. They have expanded the length of the river now, and the last time we went, I think it took 45 min. to take the tour. They said that there would be a lock later (you know…to raise and lower the water level), and that it would be even longer. I imagine it may have already been done by now. I love walking along there, too!
What kinds of things did you write for the Alamode??
Thanks for your kind words about San Antonio. San Antonio is beautiful about 9 months out of the year. The summers can be brutal, especially this year, when we had over 50 days of 100+ temperatures and about 2 inches of rain the whole summer. That’s when I wish I was down in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where it is winter, the winters being very much like our mild San Antonio winters.
My husband and son work only a couple of blocks from the River Walk, and I go down there to eat lunch with them on special occasions. We really do have a nice downtown.
I don’t write for any magazine any more, but I started out writing about configuring computer memory using the DOS operating system. Then I wrote a lot about Personal Data Assistants, and how to set up your own website from domain name registration through hosting and page design. Then there was the out-there stuff such as accessing the Internet using the Unix command line, designing a user-friendly television remote control, computer literacy for the deaf, desktop pest control (adware and spyware) and digital kitchen appliances (such as the LG refrigerator with a computer screen in the door.) All this stuff is pretty old hat now, but I had fun researching it when I was doing it.
This forum and the girlebooks fan fiction forum has met a need in my life this year. When it became obvious “Smelled Smoke” might never be published, and with the unhappiness with “60 whiskers”, I like many other readers felt…….unfullfilled, in a state of grieve, if you will. Reading fan’s fiction, conversing with other readers, talkign about the books, has given me so closure. Thank you Laura and Joyce.
The LJB fans that have participated in the forum and the site have met a need in my life. If it weren’t for you, we wouldn’t have any fun new stories to read. When I read the forum posts now, it is just like reading a new “Cat Who” novel, with an added dimension. With several fans writing, Qwill has a lot of futures to choose from. And your story about Polly’s point of view gave me new understanding about why Polly made the decisions she made. I enjoyed seeing what “life after Polly” would be like for Qwill as well.
So thank you fans, along with Laura for setting all this up. It has been a treat, and I hope it continues this way for some time to come.
Joyce,
Thanks for sharing about all you wrote about in magazines. Some/most of that would be beyond me, lol. I have been wanting to set up a website, myself, at some point. Do you have any current recommendations for people, in this day and age? (meaning your own, or other good ideas on the web, etc.?)
I have always wanted to spend a day or two at the river on Christmas. Have you done that, and when do you recommend doing it, with the crowds that must be present during that time?
I just finished The Cat Who Went into the Closet, and I must say that it was awesome, being that there was so much character development, and Polly really did seem to be a real person with real emotions and sentiment toward Qwill. MUCH better than those last books! Made the choppy, incomplete nature of the last books even more obvious, and made me feel even more skeptical about her doing the writing, or all of the writing in them.
Still can’t find any info on LJB as to her health, future books, etc. Also, thought I’d share with any Frances Mayes (Under the Tuscan Sun) fans – I’ve been to Bramasole in Italy! My husband actually had the nerve to ask how I knew it was Bramasole – duh!!! Took many pictures, and even left Frances & Ed a note in their mailbox – no reply, though. While on a walk outside of Cortona from our little place we stayed, we met the girl who teaches Frances & Ed Italian. Her mother invited us up to their patio and served us little bottles of wine, chocolates, fruit, and crackers. The mother spoke no English, although we still could communicate. She sent us on our way with a bunch of her purple irises and some lettuce for a salad. What hospitality – I can’t imagine inviting strangers walking by to do the same as she did, can you?
Anyway, just thought I’d share a unique experience in Italy with you.
That book sounds good to me!
Is there anyone on here who has actually gone to Nova Scotia, where Lucy Maude Montgomery had the setting for her books about Anne and Green Gables?
I would like to go someday, but would like to know if it is as good as the hype?
Thanks!
Was Bramasole as beautiful as it sounds in the books? I read that Frances Mayes has another old house further up the mountain, that is much more secluded than Bramasole. Also, Frances has another book coming out in March, which I can’t wait to read! As you can probably guess, I’m a huge fan.
If you want to see the pictures, I have put them on my website. They are beautiful–Joyce.
Look at pages 5 and 6 on the J. B. McDonald & Son site.
http://site.jbmcdonaldandson.com/xs.php?page=products&siteid=203&table=user_jbmcdonaldandson&cursor=12&lang=en
Anne Parker, I have always loved “The Cat Who Went Into the Closet”. It is rich with story lines. Just the humor in Timmy and his nasty cat, and Qwill facing his first Halloween on the Goodwinter Blvd. would have made the book priceless. Then the scene where Qwill plays Santa is so hilarious. And Riker and Mildred get married, and the dog sled scene….
And that does not even count the mystery of Eugenia Roth Gage’s death in FL. Plus we get to meet Celia. And I have not even mentioned the reveal of the “Big Burning”!!!! WHAT A BOOK!
HI!
Loved the jokes about Qwill serving apples to the kids at Halloween, and the repercussions if he did so, lol. Yes, the whitened mustache must’ve looked hilarious!
I just read The Cat Who Dropped a Bombshell, and loved it, too! Tons of detail, and interweaving storylines. Can’t you just picture KoKo dropping from the heights onto Harvey’s head?
Ann,
It’s much easier nowadays because you can get your domain name registration, your hosting and design all in one place. That used to be three different, complicated steps. As far as recommendations, it depends on what you want to do and how much you want to spend. Laura (the proprietress of this website) can give you much more info that I can because she and her husband own a web building / hosting business.
If you want to come to SA for Xmas, I would recommend as early as possible. The weather here in late November is probably the most beautiful, so right after Thanksgiving might be the best time. Believe it or not, I think the crowds are the biggest in the hot summertime when the temps soar above 100. Can’t say why. I’d like to get out of the city in the summer.
Thanks for the info!
I will have to talk to hubby about going to SA. I would love to see those Christmas lights this year! So would the kids, I think!
Please let me know if you do decide to come. We’ll try to get in touch!
ok! I will!
Jeannmarie,
I have a copy of “Under the Tuscan Sun” that I planned to review for this site at some point. I saw the movie, and loved it, so I bought the book. Thanks for sharing the info on Bramasole. Perhaps I need to move that book further up in my reading queue.
G’Day Joyce and All,
I have finally located 60 Whiskers through Booktopia. I also found Two Cats, Three Tales. There is still no luck with Bananas or Bombshell, as they seem to be out of print. I, however, shall persist. For those of you looking for info on LJB’s series, I have found a good synopsis in Wikipedia, believe it or not. According to them, Smoke was scheduled to be released April 2008 and is now supposed to be releasedd sometime in 2009, but many sites have removed it entirely. I have found this summary in Wikipedia very useful, as it has all of the titles in order along with their ISBN – extremely handy when ordering. On a different note, we have 13 free to air channels in Sydney and one of them is GO. They are currently airing Magnum PI – ohhhhhh, I can easily see him as Qwill. As far as murder series go, does anyone remember Murder She Wrote? We are airing this at the moment as well. I had forgotten that the series went for 8 seasons – huge in Hollywood. I have seen each one and am enjoying a blast from the past.Joyce, I really admire your ability to answer each of our comments and I feel very priviledged indeed to be part of such an active and erudite site. We all live so far away and yet somehow come together for support and sharing. It’s great. Keep it up girls. Talk to you soon.
G’Day, Diana,
Thank you for your kind words and your useful information. Wow, erudite is a real compliment.
I think everyone believes Tom Selleck is the front runner for the Qwill role. However, if he has become too seasoned a citizen, as I said before, I could see Mark Harmon (from NCIS) or even Scott Bakula (Quantum Leap, Enterprise) as Qwill.
Joyce,
I had completely forgotten about those two. Ever since Mark Harmon was cast and agreed to the role as Ted Bundy, I can’t seem to get his believable role out of my mind, but, then again, he’s obviously a VERY good actor. He also has the rancor needed for Qwill. Now, who is cast as Polly, let alone Dr Goodwinter (Melinda, I believe, from memory)? Any ideas out there?
Diana, If Laura Bush, the former president’s wife was an actress, she would be a good Polly! I know, I come up with some far fetched ideas!
Do you have ebay? All of the books and books on cd of The Cat Who are available on ebay.
Diana, Praline,
Juliet Aubrey, who plays Helen in “Primeval” and is also cast as a main character in “Middlemarch” might make a good Polly. She is alternately charming and vicious, depending on the role and the situation. I didn’t see Mark Harmon as Ted Bundy, but I bet he was good. I just remember him in “St. Elsewhere” a zillion years ago and then on NCIS. As Gibbs, he is a very private person, kind but doesn’t suffer fools gladly. He can form lasting relationships with his coworkers, but not in his personal life. When he showed up with a mustache, I thought–”there’s our Qwill.”
We got this email from Jeanne N. Hi! Jeanne.
“FYI – Mark Harmon and Lauren Tewes, who was Director Shephard on NCIS, also were in Chicago Hope. Loved that show, especially when Mandy Patinkin was on, who later was on Criminal Minds. Does anyone know of any website about LJB? I simply adore her, and would love to know about her. ”
Thanks for the heads-up! What about Lauren Tewes as Polly? I had forgotten about Chicago Hope. Wasn’t that a sequel to St. Elsewhere? And how could we work in Mandy Pantinkin? I loved him in “The Princess Bride.” Would he make a good Andrew Brodie?
If you haven’t visited our LJB forum, please do. Here’s the link:
http://girlebooks.com/forum/
Praline,
Thank you for recommending e-bay. I hadn’t even thought of it, as I tend to avoid purchasing over cyberspace – security and all that. We have a rather large amount of theft identity at the moment in Australia. I will definitely check it out, though. Love your idea of Laura Bush; it’s a real hoot. I immediately thought of Angela Lansbury, as she made a most believable Miss Marple, but she may be a little elderly for the part now, which is a real shame.
Joyce,
I actually haven’t seen Middlemarch. I am a great fan of Midsummer Murders. In case you haven’t guessed, we receive many BBC productions here and their murder mysteries, often combined with a spectre or two, are really very good – almost up to Agatha Christie standard. If you can find it, I would highly recommend Midsummer Murders. You can probably find it on our ABC website (it will have .com.au at the end). I will keep my thinking cap on for more casting for The Cat Who. I might even ask my psychiatrist husband Peter (my husband who) for some ideas. Nevermind that it’s a great excuse to reread the series!!!
Thanks for all the info and brain-storming. I hope no one minds me writing in English spellings………
You are welcome, Diana. I have a good friend, a retired teacher who lives in Melbourne. I think Judith Dench would have been a good Polly, but has aged out of the role. Also Ed Asner for Arch, but he has gotten to old.
The redhead on Desperate Housewives, with the long red hair, on the show her name is Bri. Dye her hair brown and she could be Melinda?
lol thanks for this diversion today, I needed it.
That’s Marcia Cross on Desperate Housewives, and I adore her! Actually, dye her hair black, and put it in a pageboy and she would make a good Susan Exbridge. What about Judd Hirsch as Arch Ryker?
Judd Hirsch, good one for Riker. For Danielle, the sharp voiced, mini skirted wife of the unlucky banker in “Tailed a Thief” what about the actress who played “Sharowna” on the first season of Monk, she played his caretaker assistant. And for Mildred Riker……..Kathy Bates?
Michael J Fox would have been the perfect Jr. Goodwinter, but he is not acting since his illness. Another prospect for Polly…..remember the actress in Dharma and Greg, who played Greg’s mother…………..
Kathy Bates would be a perfect Mildred Ryker! She is a wonderful actress! Which brings to mind–what about Camryn Mannheim for Hixie Ross? I was bowled over by her in “The Practice.” She’s a large woman, and it was soooo nice to see her looking so beautiful in those marvelous silk suits they designed for her, and that long shiny hair. She is usually cast as a tacky old woman in a frumpy house dress!
I have not heard of anyone who would make a better Jr. Goodwinter than Michael J. Fox. And why not? This is our fantasy, so we could even cast Clark Gable at Arch Ryker if we liked.
I think I could settle for Nicholas Cage for Jr. Goodwinter.
Good Morning Everyone, evening for you. Haven’t we been busy thinkers? I haven’t had a chance to clearly brain-storm, as I have had to take courses to maintain my psychology license (mandatory here). Joyce and Praline, these are all very good ideas. Now, how are we all going to get together to “get this show on the road”. My recommendation, of course, is to come to Sydney; I have two guest rooms and a spare bathroom – food for thought (according to Mildred Riker). Not to mention we have a continuation to write: The Cat Who Went Down Under. Joyce, I think we should have Koko’s death howl in the Sydney Opera House – the accoustics would wake all of Sydney. We now have to invent a way to get him into the Opera House. So far, I agree with all the casting suggestions. By the way, anyone seen the news? The outback seems to have been blown into Sydney – my house is a red dust mess….
Your comment about the Sydney Opera House reminds me of another mystery book I read once: “The Feng Shui Detective” by Nury Vittachi. The Opera House is featured prominently in the book. If you’ve ever studied Feng Shui (the ancient Chinese art of home or office arrangement) you’d get a kick out of how the detective uses Feng Shui to solve a crime.
Just had an idea for Qwill and maybe Arch. Hugh Jackman and Adrian Paul. Everyone by now knows Hugh but maybe one needs to be reminded of Adrian – the Highlander. If you haven’t seen him in a kilt, I highly recommend watching either the last movie or the television series; he’s a dead ringer for Sean Connery’s son, should be able to grow a mustache befitting Qwill, and, as you guessed, looks GREAT in a kilt.
Hello Jeanne, if you want a quick summary of the series, go to Wikipedia, but if you want more Google her name and take your pick – she is rather elusive.
Snowdon,
I did hear about the duststorms. Is that usual? Sounds horrible if you have asthma or allergies, and I’ll bet it IS a housekeeping nightmare!
As for the 2 books you mentioned not being able to find, I have read those from our public library. Were you wanting a copy, or just to read them? You could have someone else order them on ebay (someone you know and trust), and have them mail them directly to you, and pay them by check or PayPal. Do you have PayPal or ProPay there?
Speaking of someone who looks good in a kilt, there’s always Mel Gibson. I’d see him as Brodie more than Qwill, however. Hugh Jackman is so drop dead gorgeous that I can’t picture him as Qwill, since I view the latter as a more rugged type.
Have you read the Lilian Jackson Braun Fan Fiction site here?
http://girlebooks.com/forum/lilian-jackson-braun-fan-forum/
Sorry about all that dirt!
Well, I agree that Mandy Patinkin would be great, and possibly the actor who plays Monk, as he seems to be really talented, and can be so in a low-key way. I like the idea of Tom Selleck, all right. He would look great in a mustache of that sort, and definitely is distinguished. How about Meryl Streep as Polly? Anyone seen her in Julia and Julie? AWESOME! Great movie!
Who do you think should be Fran Brodie? Julia Roberts?
Meryl Streep for Polly and Julia Roberts for Fran? Perfect suggestions! They both would fit the role marvelously! You just hit on my and my husband’s favorite actresses. We have seen “The Devil Wears Prada”, “Out of Africa” and “Steel Magnolias” dozens of times!
I haven’t yet seen Julia and Julie, but you can be guaranteed that I well!
Julia and Julie is really long…I think, 2 and 1/2 hrs. It is well worth it, and portrays Julia Childs, and her book well. The acting, and the imitation of Julia Childs are awesome! I would watch it over and over. I will probably get the video of it later. I have read her book, and it was close to part of it. They didn’t try to cover the whole book.
I have her cookbook, and had fun making recipes out of there when my husband and I were first married. I need to get back to that. Something about making mac n cheese and spaghetti as a lifestyle, since kids, rid me of the creativity you need to pursure those meals, lol!
You know, if Robert Downey Jr. was older, he would make a good Qwill. Maybe with a moustache, and a few more made-up wrinkles…yum.
Love, love, love Angela Lansbury, but I do think that she is way up in years now. Has anyone seen her in Gaslight, when she was really young? I love to watch Turner Classic Movies, and saw that movie on there. She is not the sweet older lady we grew to love. Try young and saucy!
No, that dust storm is not our norm. that apparently was the worst one in our history. It put quite a few elderly and breathing compromised people in hospital. It has certainly kept my vacuum, broom and duster busy.
I was after those two books for purchase, as it will then complete my series – yes I have that many. I have found a book-finder who is trying to obtain them for me. Thanks for that.
Yes, I did see the origianl Gaslight with Angela. Wow, what an actress. I still haven’t had any more bright ideas with regard to casting – too much dust on the brain, hee hee.
Joyce, out of sheer curiosity, what prompted to begin this wonderfully interactive and supportive site? Oh, and by the way, have a look at Adrian Paul (not that I’m a fan or anything…)
G’Day to all and thanks for the dust sympathy
I owe it all to my daughter, Laura, the proprietress of GirlEBooks. She wanted to start a website featuring literature written by women. I decided to alternate classic and contemporary lit for my reviews. For contemporary women’s lit, I chose my favorite, Lilian Jackson Braun. We ended up getting so much traffic that Laura set up a forum (http://girlebooks.com/forum/lilian-jackson-braun-fan-forum/) just for LJB fans. The fans kind of took the site and ran with it. All the great ideas, like the trivia, fan fiction, and choosing actors and actresses to play the parts came from the fans themselves. I was paid back tenfold by getting to read original stories by people who know and love the characters.
Makes me wonder what would have happened had I decided to start with Harry Potter instead! Well, I wouldn’t have because I’m still a bigger LJB fan!
I am having trouble remembering the names of some of the younger actors that are on tv these days. I can think of faces that would be good in a “Cat Who” tv series or movie, but don’t have a clue the names.
I know what you mean. I can’t remember all of their names, either, even though I know a lot of their faces! Since I don’t like a lot of the programs that are on now, it doesn’t help.
How old is Arch Ryker? Qwill’s age? If Spender Tracy were still alive, he would do well, in or out of a pinch!
I was thinking the same thing about Jerry Orbach. Remember he was a cop on the original Law and Order. If I remember correctly, he partnered originally with Chris Noth, of Sex & the City and The Good Wife fame.
Yes, he’d be great!
Oh I respectfully disagree about Robert Downey Jr. as Qwill even if he were older. He is to short and to sleezy looking for my taste.
If Ed Asner was the age he was during the Mary Tyler Moore show of the 70s he would be my Riker. Now for Amanda Goodwinter. In the early books LJB portrayed Amanda and rumbled, always in a bad mood, clothes never fit right, unironed………..and I pictured her chubby. But in a more recent book she described Amanda’s figure as a scarecrow, which would mean thin. I had thought Kathy Bates might be a good Amanda and now I am not so sure. Remember how Barbara Bain from the old days looked when she was in her forties. She would have been a great Polly. I think everyone has someone in mind when they read the books, for Qwill, visualizing someone.
I think Ed Asner would have made a great Ryker. Maybe Shirley MacLaine for Amanda?
Speaking of those younger actors, what about Sean Murry (McGee from NCIS) for Jr. Goodwinter?
http://schuon25-x.blogspot.com/2007/05/barbara-bain.html
If you don’t remember barbara bain, here is her picture
My Fran Brody – Rebecca Madder from the tv show: Lost
http://www.tv.com/rebecca-mader/person/52232/summary.html?tag=content_wrap;cast_crew_list
Joyce I have tried my hand at writing and it is so difficult. I added a bit more to my story in the fan fiction part of this site. LJB covered so many personalities in her charactersa and so many topical issues and ways a person could be conned and die, not much is left! She is the master.
You have found the real bugbear in writing fan fiction. Fans are very detail oriented people, so you really have to have your characters and details down in order to write the stories. With nearly thirty books to research it could take a lifetime to get enough details down to write a presentable story! But don’t worry. We will either gently correct you or accept a few errant details. I’m sure if you look hard enough, you’ll find even LJB made them. Remember, this is just for fun!
I’m a Trekkie, and I have lost count of the times even the professionally published novels went awry on the details, but they still lots of books, so we need make no apologies for our fan fiction. Just make sure to get Qwill and the cats right. Everything else is negotiable.
I have an inspiration for my book. I think I will let Qwill think back over the last month, of all the ways and all the times Sven and Zoe did not fit in or get along with the locals. Then he will find out Sven and Zoe are abandoning the project and not returning with Maugeritte’s death. They are getting together and flying to Japan for anothe project as a couple. So it will be left to Amanda and Fran to pick up the pieces and assist with the finishing of the project. This will lead to Fran and qwill spending alot of time together again.
That works for me! I’ve always been a big fan of the Qwill and Fran partnership, especially because Andrew Brodie is her dad!
Hello everyone,
I just visited this site for the first time. After reading some of your comments I saw that there are some of you looking for hard to get books. I just went through my collection and realized that I have an extra “Short & Tall Tales”, “The Cat Who Had 60 Whiskers” & The Cat Who Dropped a Bombshell”.
If anyone is interested in them let me know and we can make arrangements. I’m in Canada so our prices up here are a bit more.
Welcome, Anne. I’m sure there are readers out there that would be happy to take you up on your offer.
What are some other favorite mystery series of those on here? When I finish “The Cat Who…” series, I want to know where to go from there.
Thanks, everyone!
Oh, I do like the lighter kinds of mysteries, rather than the gore. I like history/romances, too!
Ann Parker,
You have caught me (us actually, Peter, the husband who in my world)going through and categorizing our library. We decided to convert one of our bedrooms, since we both love the written word, albeit in different directions. In terms of history/romances but not in a series, you will read no one better than Victoria Holt(aka,Phillipa Carr). Often she combines her facts and romance with mystery. My next favourite in a series other than LJB is Sue Grafton. Her PI is Kinsey Millhone (female) and the beginning is A for Alibi. I believe she is now at T is for Trespass. Elizabeth George is author of the Inspector Linley series. If you don’t mind a bit of gore, PD James and Patricia Cornwell (Kay Scarpetta as coroner)are excellent reads. In my neck of the woods, we have Tamara McKinnley, Barbara Bickmore and Patricia Shaw, all of which feature strong females in tough outback conditions and a fair whack of romance, sometimes a family mystery or legacy. Bryce Courtney is not bad, as well. I have subscribed to Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine for the last 25 years and highly recommend it. It has been published since the 1930’s and features authors’ short stories, many of whom are major authors. Would you believe that our Lilian began by submitting a story to EQ in the 1960’s,who published it, and then went on to write our beloved Cat Who? I researched it and it’s true…. I think I’ve given a lot of people a lot to think about and put on their reading lists. Happy reading and let me know if you have any trouble obtaining the Australian authors.
To Ann and All;
I just LOVE the Donna Andrews, Meg Langslow series of books! They all have plenty of animals and crazy characters in them. The mysteries are well written and there is usually no gore and only a little bit of short lived suspense or terror in them. I’ve also just started the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich. They are kookie and supsensfull and are a very fast read. Also the Joe Grey mysteries and Mrs. Murphy’s are great if you love cats! Enjoy!!!
P.S.,
I have also enjoyed most of Marian Babson’s books. Some of them are very dark and moody but the ones about the actress’ and the mystery writer’s are very good!
Anne Parker, I too recommend the Sue Grafton Series. Another little known series I love is by Anne George, Murder all in the Family, Murder on a Bad Hair Day, Murder at the Bootin’ Scootin’ Boogie, and others, not sure if her “Anne” had an “e”.
A stressful day at work. So many fires to put out. Not many people smiling back at me, most ill and cross. Days like this, I get home and turn on a taped LJB Cat Who book and hear dear George G.’s voice as Qwill. What a comfort. ps I even had a flat tire when I got to the parking lot this afternoon after work!
That is certainly high praise for LJB! Thanks for sharing!
That sounds like one s—- of a day. The kicker had to be the tyre, ugh. I think most of us have picked up an LJB in similar circumstances, and, yes, it is indeed high praise for her. Anne, I sincerely hope next week is better.
Thanks for all the reading ideas, everyone! I can’t wait to finish reading my books, so that I can get more at the library. I’ll let you know how I like them when I have read some! You all went beyond the call of duty, suggesting things!
Well, we have gotten rained out down here, even though this week has been much lighter. Hope it has calmed down for everyone else, too!
Praline,
I know what you mean about Robert Downey, and especially since his rep preceeds him. I still think that he has that rugged look that Joyce mentioned, and is good-looking, too. He may not have enough “class” to be Qwill, but as a good actor, he might be able to pull it off. I liked him in Ironman.
Another suggestion for Qwill in a movie, the actor who played the main character in the television show “coach” and “the district”……what is his name. Craig T. Nelson I think
I wonder how the lead in Little house on the Prairie would have played Qwill? He was definitly low-key, and a great actor. Ah yes, Michael Landon.
We have had more than one person suggest Craig T. Nelson as Qwill. I’ve been trying to think of some unlikely persons as possible Qwills. It reminds me of Marlon Brando trying out as “The Godfather”. No one would have thought of him as Don Corleone, but he turned out to be perfect.
Michael Landon has the looks, but I’ve always seen him in roles where he is jovial, and Qwill seems more of the brooding sort. Still, an interesting suggestion.
True! Michael Landon could be humorous. I was thinking of him more in Touched by an Angel, but he may have been amusing there, too. I just don’t remember it as much. I just know that we are going to think of the perfect Qwill, but it may take a while. There are a vast number of actors in my memory of small and large screens, as I’m sure there are in all of yours! What about that guy who played Hercule Poirot in Agatha Christie movies? I don’t mean Albert Finney (looks aren’t right), but the other prominent one (David Suchet). Look him up on imdb on Google, and see who I mean. Remember him? He’s definitely brooding looking, at least!
Some of the pro football players/turned actors would be tall and abig enough to be Qwill. But I cannot think of any names. Arnold Swartznagger is big, lololololol at that one. I hope my sense of humor translates in type. Ted Dansen is tall, but perhaps to sharp featured. The guy that played the father in the movie Dirty Dancing and was on Law and Order, Jerry Wallach, passed away. What about the guy who was on Law and Order, and also played “mr. big” in sex and the city. What is his name? He is tall and about the right age.
Chris Noth! He is now on “The Good Wife” and has been great in everything he has done! Put a mustache on him and gray his hair a bit and he might just fit! Funny, since I thought the perfect Ryker would have been his partner from “Law and Order,” Jerry Orbach (although he has passed away.) They had such chemistry together.
I was crazy about Jerry Orbach. He might have been a really good Qwill. When I said Jerry Wallach, I meant Jerry Orbach.
I have recently gone to youtube and put in Lilian Jackson Braun. Several young girls have given their book reveiws on Youtube. Interesting.
Chris Noth. Very good substitution for Tom. He is the correct height, weight, and salt and pepper hair (I believe he dies it black for the camera..). He also has the screen reputation of The C Word difficulties. He is in the correct age range, but, can we afford him? Unfortunately, David Suchet is way too short (Qwill is 6′2″) and doesn’t have enough hair; but, oh, that mustache. It’s a great pity, as he is one of the best actors in that field, which tends to be rather theatrical. Patrick Stewart would do the role with flair, but he’d need a salt and pepper wig……… All of this casting couch discussion has given me a new respect for those who do this as a profession- every Oscar and Emmy has been more than greatly deserved.
Pat P – I was wondering how you are faring? Hopefully all is well.
I adore Patrick Stewart, although I think he would make a better Andrew Brodie. However, his costar in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” Jonathan Frakes, might be right for Qwill. I wouldn’t worry about affording him. In our discussion, we’re casting dead people so if we wanted a De Niro or a Tom Hanks for a role, we’ll have him!
Good point, Joyce. Andrew Brodie would be perfect. I also like the idea of dead casting, but am wondering why no one has picked up on the cat who series. It’s a “dead” ringer for money!!!!!!!!!!!! Although, maybe we’ll just keep it as our fantasy and enjoy the various flights of fancy.
Notice to all: I have an extra paperback copy of “The Cat Who Blew the Whistle.” It goes to the first person to send me a mailing address.
We got an email from Patricia regarding her cat. It came in an email, so I wanted to post the message. Here it is:
BLESS YOU FOR THINKING OF ME DIANA. I’M STILL IN REMISSION AND ENJOYING
THE EXCHANGE OF IDEAS YOU GIRLS ARE PUTTING FORTH. ONE OF MY LITTLE
FEMALE CATS HAS DEVELOPED A FACIAL SWELLING AROUND THE NOSE AND I AM
QUITE CONCERNED ABOUT HER. I TOOK HER TO THE VET BUT HE SAID HE HAS
NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS. HE PUT HER ON ANTIBIOTICS BUT THE
SWELLING IS INCREASING. I AM TAKING HER TOMORROW TO ANOTHER VET.
WONDER IF ANYONE OUT THERE HAS EXPERIENCED ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE?
If you want to reply to her privately, send us the message and we’ll forward.
Patricia, I don’t know where you reside, but here in Australia, we have a lot of allergic reactions to snake bites, spider bites, and various plant matter. Is she an outdoor cat? I would certainly not rule out some allergic reaction. A change in diet is also possible; they seem to be susceptible to food allergies as much as we are. Just a thought, Pat, and I hope it helps. Sometimes being a detective is really a great help to the vet – they are not around our beloved pets as much as we are and they rely on our input.
Take care and kind regards, Diana
Also, Gwindolyn sends many woofs and healing licks your way (as much as a Cocker Spaniel can give to a feline…)
LOL, let’s stick David Suchet on Qwill’s recumbent bike, where nobody could tell how tall he is, powder his splendid moustache, and give him a wig. I just love him!
Patricia, in my area, when an animal gets a swelling like that for no apparent reason, it is called a “wolf” meaning a fly, maybe a large horsefly has lit on the animal and layed larva (eggs) just under the skin. The most common areas are facial. The vet does just a bit of surgery, just barely under the skin and removes the larva which looks like a tiny worm. It is very common here. Have you heard of this in your area before?
ANNE – THANKS FOR THE INFO. SANDY IS AN INSIDE CAT. SHE IS ABOUT 10 YEARS OLD NOW. I HAVE NEVER SEEN A HORSEFLY IN THE HOUSE. I HAVE BEEN SICK AND HAVE MOSTLY BEEN CONFINED TO THE INSIDE DUE TO MEDICATIONS I HAVE TO TAKE. SHE STARTED WITH A SERIES OF SNEEZES ABOUT FOUR WEEKS AGO AND SHORTLY AFTER I NOTICED THE SWELLING STARTED. THE VET SAID IT IS SUBCUTANEOUS AND DID NOT FEEL IT WAS A TUMOR. I HAVE NINE OTHER CATS (SOME ARE A LOT OLDER THAN SANDY) BUT I HAVE NEVER SEEN ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE. I AM LOOKING TO TAKE HER TO ANOTHER VET FOR A SECOND OPINION.
That might be a good idea Pat. Poor little kitty. Bentley, the tuxedo cat sends her good wishes to the sick kitty. Bently is my husband’s cat and barely tolerates me. My siamese, Sam passed away two years ago. Bently plots against me all the time. She even jumped from a high window onto my face int he middle of the night, brusing my forhead. Reminds me of how Yumyum injured Fran one time.
Wow. I have never heard of such aggressive cats. That is just plain strange. Thinking of wearing a helmet, Anne? Maybe she is jealous of you, when it comes to all the attention you must get from her owner, rotfl!
Oh she is jealous Ann Parker. The only reason I tolerate her is my dear siamese Sam, that passed away, loved her. Sam babied Bently. Sam has a liter of kitten before we could get her spayed and so Sam had the motherly instinct. She cleaned Bently’s ears, loved on her and Bently loved her back. They were good sisters. Bently is our only cat now, and she is 7 years old. She has always favored my husband and barely tolertes my granddaughters. Sam loved the grandkids and would “guard” them while they played, sitting at attention only a couple of feet away at all times. Can you tell I love cats?
Anne,
I love cats, too! I am allergic, though, and I hate that. When I was growing up, we had several in a row, but ended up with dogs eventually. We have a dog now. If there are cats in heaven, I would like to have one, lol. There, I wouldn’t have any allergies. Anyone remember the book, The Cat Who Went to Heaven? I read that, when a child. Very unique!
I will be in the other room http://girlebooks.com/forum/lilian-jackson-braun-fan-forum/
at 7 pm central time for a chat if anyone can join me
I will try again tonight around 7 or 7:30 central time.
Going to chat now
Wish I could get on to chat, but every time you do, I have to be gone somewhere. Busy time of year for me. Sorry!
What time would be good for you, Ann Parker?
Anyone want to chat about the “books” in the fan forum chat at girlebooks? at 5:45 pm central time?
Ann, Anne,
If you are getting little response it may be because some people–like me–are not getting this notice until after the chat time. Anne’s note didn’t reach me until some time early today. I’d love to get in on a chat, but to be on the safe side, it might be a good idea to give longer notice. I like the idea, however.
Any ideas of a good meeting day and time for a chat, Joyce?
I have stayed away from rereading or listening to any cat who books for 2 months. I am trying to break my addiction. I have discovered a few new authors in the processs. I am wondering how much longer I can stay away from Koko and Yumyum………..
I have yet to even finish all the books, so I haven’t dealt with any addiction. I do tend to get about 3 books each time I go to the library, and at least one is not in any series that I am reading. I think that that helps me not to focus too much on any one series of books.
Has anyone else read Margaret Truman’s mysteries set in the government and other well-known buildings in Washington DC? I learned a lot about politics as usual, and history of the buildings, themselves. They are awesome! So are Dick Francis’ books, if you like horse racing or just horses.
Let’s see. I can chat best later at night, tho I have to tell you that I have never chatted, and am not sure how to go about it. I would need directions, lol. Not chatting in person, but online.
Yes I like both Dick Francis books and Margaret Truman’s. If you like Margaret Truman’s you might like the books that are similar written by Elliot Roosevelt, former president Franklin Roosevelt’s son.
Thanks! I didn’t realize that there was another writer like that! I will check into it!
Sorry! Didn’t put my whole name the first time!
Any evening around 8:30 is best for me. Tuesday and Thursday are my Kung Fu nights, so I’m usually too tired to type, but can force myself if necessary.
Ann Parker, to chat, click the “Forum” link at the top of this page. Scroll down to the bottom of the Forum page and you’ll see Chatroll. You can log in as a guest, or you can create an account which identifies you. If you want to create an account to be ready, you don’t have to wait till chat time to do it. Just follow the onscreen instructions.
After you create the account, log out of the Chatroll account page, and go back to the Forum page. A space at the bottom of the chat window allows you to type your comments. Let me know if you get lost, and I can help figure out what you need to do.
Thanks, Joyce! I’ll try that when I can!
There is a really nice cat who lover named Maria from Canada who wants to chat with us. She is on facebook with me at the site “The Cat Who”
Another good facebook site is “People Who what to live in Moose County”.
I can chat tonight around 8:30 pm central time. If anyone else can.
Tonight (Saturday) at 8:30 works for me.
I will be there, here, lol
yeah, I’ll be there
Joyce, I enjoyed the chat.
I did too, Praline. And I wanted to tell you again how much I enjoyed your “Story from Polly’s Point of View.” It actually gave me peace over the ending of “Sixty Whiskers.”
G’Day to all!
We have been away on holidays at a pet-friendly place. I would love to go to the chat room, but our time zones and my availability do not permit, alas.
I would love to read Praline’s story, but being a cyber-space ignoramus (or should I say ignorama), I have no idea how to get to it…….. Please let me know how to do this, making it idiot-proof, of course.
Thank you Joyce. Maybe if we can chat again we can talk about the “Polly’s Point of View story”. Diana go to this site http://girlebooks.com/forum/lilian-jackson-braun-fan-forum/
Diana I ahve a friend in Melbourne I chat with every night, which is her morning or my morining which is her night. Let me know. To get to chat you also go to the like I listed for Polly’s story.
Diana, just to make sure, I have added to the link to Praline’s story. This will take you directly to the story. There are four pages so make sure to click the link to the next page to see everything.
If you haven’t read “The Cat Who Had Sixty Whiskers” the story will not make as much sense, but you’ll still be able to understand it. I thought it was a really good analysis of Qwill and Polly’s relationship.
Well, I meant to include the link and forgot. Here it is:
http://girlebooks.com/forum/lilian-jackson-braun-fan-forum/a-story-from-pollys-point-of-view/
Love the website. We have been looking for The Cat Who Smelled Smoke so this site was really helpful. Hope it’s published someday. Thanks for all the suggestions for mystery series.
Welcome, Linda! If you haven’t already seen it, check out our forum. We have not only reading suggestions but original stories from our readers featuring Qwill and Gang.
http://girlebooks.com/forum/
Check out this story from Praline on another board……she wrote it to try and resolve her feelings after reading the horrible “60 Whiskers” book. It captures my interest right away. Praline I love it!
A look at the Cat Who series from Polly’s eye
Think back to The first book where Polly and Qwill got together
A tall middled aged woman, of conservative dress and resolute demeanor stood at her clothes dryer and slowly and methodically hung up clothes. It was the first time she had been able to do the laundry since the white out from the Big One in which she lost power and ended up hosting an overnight guest. She had accepted a date from the new man in town, Jim Qwilleran. He had been paying her some attention for months and she felt he wanted to be just friends. But his invitations persisted. At first she felt flattered and then she wondered what a good looking, intelligent man with all the money in the world could ever see in her. She had very little money, having been widowed at an early age and eeking a living as a small town librarian for years. So she finally decided to invite him to her small country cottage, and see what he thought about her meager home. She picked a most inconvient night. The Big one hit, as the locals in her county called it and Jim Qwilleran’s vehicle became stuck in a ditch. Being from down below, as the residents of Moose county called the lower 27 states, he was not prepared and walked on foot to her cottage. Thank goodness he found it. After he warmed up,
Anne, It is not so easy to write. It is downright difficult. I know Joyce knows this because she is a writer. I am not a writer, just a book lover.
I tried making a list of things that new cat who books could be about. Our dear Mrs. Braun covered so many topical issues, it is hard to find something she did not touch upon.
At first I thought about the age old, younger woman/older man or older woman/younger man. No, Danielle, Carter Lee, Lynette, and Danielle’s older husband…..hum that has been done.
Bananas Alden and Violet also.
Then I tought, okay, what about rich daddy protecting young daughter, no, Lived High and Sara Plensdorf and her father, those characters explored this already.
Okay, we know Mrs. Braun covered natural disasters as well as man made ones in many, many books.
So what about straight evilness. Evil people for the sake of evil. Like Melinda’s brother. Or Herb Hackpole. Or once again, Carter Lee and Danielle. Okay, done.
Then I thought, what about some vixen trying to steal Qwill for the money……Melinda again, DAnielle, etc
Okay what about someone who worships and loves Qwill, Iris….done
Hum……
Then I thought okay, topical issue: Money, murder, sibling rivalry, mean old mothers, bossy fathers, indifferent fathers, rebellious children, all done
Young love, old love…….done
Incest, affairs, kidnapping……..done
Attempted kidnapping of Polly and actual kidnapping of Yumyum
Animals certainly has been done.
Good food, done
Good clothes and wardrobe, covered.
Interesting locations, vacations, trips, architecture, all done
WHAT IS LEFT?
Sports………covered somewhat
Curling, Scottish games, local football, love of baseball, biking
sailing, fishing
Other areas of interest, history , science……bee keeping, looms and weaving, antigues, bed and breakfasts, lighthouses, farming, theater, books, pets, environmental issues, art, design and decorating, I know someone can have a heart attack, oops done
retiring to FL, journalism, Qwill could play santa, parades, writing a one man show, children abandoned by their mothers, a sand dune could collapse? UFOs???????? all done
I cannot think of anything that Mrs. Braun has not touched on in some way. Anne started a book one time, I think it was Anne that was going to touch on the collapse of Wall Street and the K fund lost all but a very small part of its money. Now that would be intersting. Would set Qwill up for alot of scenerios. Who were his “real” friends. How would different characters in his life react.
I guess another scenerio could be Jr. and Joy or Rober and Sharon or Nick and Lori get a divorce and fight bitterly and draw Qwill in. Mrs. Braun touched on divorce a bit with Bushy and his wife, but not alot that I recall. Brody could be killed off I guess and an new police chief not like Qwill and resent his interference and money, maybe a new one from down below that is young or even Qwill’s age and not like him.
What else????
I am listening to “Saw Red”. We learn so much about Qwilleran in this book. I had forgotten Arch asked him to judge a dog food contest. Arch is still pulling the strings. Arch pulled the strings when Qwill got the job at the Fluxion. Then after he inherits the money and ARch loses Rosie and moves up to Pickax, the roles are somewhat reversed. Did this change their relationship. It appears it did not on the surface, but we see their relationship only from Qwill’s eyes. We have never been privey to Arch’s inner thoughts. Praline, I like Joyces’ suggestion you explore Arch’s point of view. And then again, maybe what you see is what you get from Arch’s character and maybe he is no deeper. He may be a person with no ulterior motives. I wonder what we would get if we explored “from a point of view” using Mildred’s thoughts. Makes one wonder.
Did anyone ever figure out if Mrs. Braun is still living and when we might see The Cat Who Smelled Smoke? Thanks.
Hi, Tonya,
It is not available yet, but you can go to Amazon.com and search for “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke”. It will give you the opportunity to be alerted by email when it is available. I am on the alert list, however, I’m not holding my breath. News of LJB is hard to come by.
I love the Cat who. All the charecters it is usually a true lol book. I can’t wait for the Cat who smelled smoke. However I almost feel cheated with the last three books. I can say I felt saddened by the changes. The books were not as humourous as before. The endings were all obvious, except for the barn burning and Polly leaving. Those parts were sad. I almost felt like I did not know the charecters. I still remain a fan of the cat who. I named my new kitten this summer Qwilleran Mackintosh we call him Qwill for short.
So until the new book comes out I will go to my older books reread them an enjoy the qwill and Moose county I miss.
Welcome, Shanna.
I think we all were a little disappointed with the last few books as compared with some of the earlier books. Your comment about predictable endings gave me a thought. I wonder if LJB created Polly’s desertion and the barn burning as a result of criticism that the series had become too predictable.
That could very well be true. Although the mystery aspects of the who done it are obivious. I hope you are right and the Cat who smelled smoke will prove to be funny and make us wonder who did it. I do enjoy the true lol while reading the earlier books my top three are. The cat who went under ground . The Cat who played Brahms ( Just getting to know Moose county was fun) and the cat who saw Ghost although I do miss Mrs Cobb. Love love love Mrs Robison and Cheif together in later books.
Shanna have you read some of the fan fiction on girlebooks?
No who writes them ?
http://girlebooks.com/forum/
Try this Shanna
G’day!
I came across your fansite because I was looking for a group of fans who might have kept a list of unlikely titles, just as in one of the Cat Who books.
Sorry to be so vague, but I’ve just read one on top of another, we’re harvesting and baling out here in South-West Victoria, Australia, it’s awfully hot and I think my brain needs a recharge.
Oh, in case you’re wondering – I’m fifty, married, one dd, live on a small alpaca farm and have a dreadful sense of humour.
What’s the news on the latest Cat Who… book?
Dominus tecum
Leonie from Cavendish (not the Cavendish sisters, I assure you!)
You sound like our kind of girl Leonie. Welcome to our humble posting site. Your description of baling in Victoria brought such a clear visual it makes me think you could be a writier! Write a cat who book for us while we wait for the next real book!!! Beth
G’Day Everyone,
Welcome fellow Aussie Leonie.Good luck with your harvesting/baling. Let me know if you’re ever in Sydney – we live in Hunter’s Hill and it would be nice to meet up with another Cat Who-er. If you go to Wikepedia (I think that’s the spelling) after Google-ing LJB, you will find a complete list of her books in chronological order along with the isbn numbers.
I have been in contact with Putnam and they know nothing about Smoke, only that it is on hold from being published. I have also been researching birth/death record sites and have come up empty. No one seems to know anything about her or her husband. It’s very strange indeed. Rather Agatha Christie-ish when she simply vanished, although she was not of great age. If anyone is interested in reading something different by her, try “Come, Tell Me How You Live”. It is an autobiography in diary style of accompanying her archaeologist husband on a site.
Is it just me, or do the last three books in the Cat Who series not feel like LJB wrote them herself? Is someone, maybe a family member, trying to keep her alive by ghost writing. This is especially apparent in Sixty Whiskers. This may explain why Putnam held off on publishing. Don’t know, but I’m putting the thought out there for discussion.
By the way, I finally found time to read Polly’s point of view. Praline, I really loved it. Keep writing. I’m amazed LJB didn’t expand such an important character as you have managed to do so very well.
Thanks for the link beth.
Diana must say I agree an I am wondering the same. The last three had lost feelings of the previous. I fineshed the last three feeling cheated and that I really did not know the charecters at all. I had started the series in the middle by chance. Started back from when Qwill first visisted Moose county. Finally fineshed with the first three books and the first three had all the charm laughter the last three missed. Maybe we need to investigate what went on behind the writing of the last three.
Thanks for the comment about my feeble attempts at writing. It helped me pass the time while missing the books. If Smelled Smoke is anything like 60 Whiskers I don’t want another bad book. I would rather talk to fans in here and read fan fiction, and of course read the old books over and over. We just have to face the fact that she got to old. We will one day also. Sometimes when I have insomnia, I run the books and characters through my mind and try and cast a movie of the cat who books. I think about current actors who could play each role. I started listening to Saw Red on tape while I was off for Veteran’s Day this past Wednesday. I listened to about half of it. Qwill’s absolute joy at finding Joy again gave way to pessimism at the change in her character. Then to slowly realize she was dead…….influenced him in future love decisions when he got to Moose County. Thanks to all of you who post and chat in here. It is a bond between us, we who wish we could live in Moose County…..Praline
Praline you have inspired me and I started writing a book in the fan fiction site. No one laugh.
Beth I love the way you started your fan fiction book. It grabbed me! You did great! Keep writing!
Anyone up for a chat on the fan forum chat tonight?
Wish I could, Anne. I am running four auctions on eBay (id: jbmcdonaldandson) and they are all ending tonight. Between that and keeping an eye on my old cat who is under the weather, I’ve got my hands full. Beth, I can’t wait to read your story. Will do so when I dig my way out of this.
Welcome and G’Day, Leonie!
Sorry I didn’t issue a welcome sooner. I’ve been running an eBay auction for a friend, and just finished tonight. Thanks, members for taking up the mantle for me and showing Leonie the ropes.
Speaking of ebay Joyce, I won a Lisa Scottoline mystery book on tape this weekend on an ebay bid for 2.00. This will be the fourth book I have read by her. While she is no LJB, I like her characters, settings and humor.
I really love your story beth. The beginning is so captivating. Reminds me of the cliff hangers of LJB’s earlier books. Like when we thought Qwill in the purple plum had died in a firey crash in Lived High or when we thought the cats were dead in Saw Red. I like you bringing in Walley Toddwhistle. I am sorry I cannot remember how to spell his name. Keep up the good work! It is great!
OMG beth you are so funny. Big Foot! One subject LJB did not cover. You are good girl.
Boy, am I glad I found this website. Like all of you, I have all LJB’s “Cat Who..” books and have read and reread them over and over. I hadn’t heard about “The Cat Who Smelled Smoke” and am excited that there may be another book in this series. I was upset with her last book and very disappointed that she ended it that way. I really, really hope that someone else continues the series. Living through “The Big One”, relaxing at the cabin on the lake, having a great piece of apple pie at Lois’ Luncheonette, and, of course, visiting the Library, are all very real to me. I liked Polly and am surprised so many are so negative about her. I think she came a long way after her heart attack. I say bring her back. I didn’t like Joy at all. Koko didn’t like Rosemary, so she can’t be reintroduced. I’d vote for anyone that Koko did.
Ginny
11/30/09
Hi Ginny, Welcome to the website. I agree, and reread the books over and over. I also listen to them on tape.
hi girls I am a 75 year old ancient brit I to love ljb the trouble with me is I can’t read so I listern to audio tapes and the cat who saw red took me3 weeks to listern to it. I kept falling asleep
but being in England it is hard to get audio tapes I am trying to get the cat who came to breakfast so far no luck
If you are wondering how I can write but not read it’s my ladywife who
writes for me If any one does take over LJB I would love to know
bob young
Welcome, Ginny. Have you looked at the Forum and seen in the Fan Forum section all the stories written by our members? They are really good, and it helps to ease the withdrawal from LJB. I recommend reading the forum topic “The Cat Who???” as Beth is really capturing the flavor and humor of the original novels, as well as imitating LJB’s flair for the Bizarre with a Bigfoot theme.
Would anyone like to chat in the chat room about cat who books tonight around 6 pm central US time?
Sorry I missed you, Anne. It seems the hurrier I go, the behinder I get. I didn’t see your message until today.
After Beth mentioned that she was a teacher I began to see a trend here. I taught high school in the early ’70s, but went into the tech sector when my hearing (or lack thereof) began to interfere. How many of you who visit this site are, or were, teachers. Can I see a show of hands??
I too am a Cat Who-aholic looking for info on LJB. Other book series I like are Janet Evanovichs books and Dorthy Gilman’s Mrs. Pollifax. Dorothy Gilman also wrote 2 books on the Contessa (fyi I don’t think she is writing anymore either). Anyone else read these? Any suggestions for other authors? Thanks!
Cathe, try Murder on a Bad Hair Day by Ann or Anne George. All her books are winners. Murder in the Family or Murder at the Bootin’ Scootin’ Boogie I forget all the titles. Joyce, I am a teacher!
There is definitely a trend here with the teacher thing. I imagine that we like LJB because of all the things we learn through her books. Then, in spite of the “murder mystery” genre, we see gentleness and affection both “human to human” and “human to animal”. We appreciate the “G” or maybe “PG” rated content, possibly because usually authors in that category work harder on their plot and style. And we aren’t usually very rich, so the fantasy of the “richest man in northeast central United States” is a real magnet. Anyone else want to take a crack at reasons for this trend?
Oh, yes, and Cathe, if you read ebooks, check out the Dorothy Sayers offerings here. You can also get Dorothy Sayers at your library or cheaply online. Her cleverly written prose and amazing plots have made her one of my favorite authors!
Thank you all so much for the suggestions. I am a Biochemist/Chemist, but did substitute teaching during college etc. and worked as an assistant in a leaning disabilities classroom for a year. Currently retired on disability – does that count lol? I enjoy the stories – clever, amusing and thought provoking without the gore and sex. There is enough of that on the news. I was raised in a small town and the characters in Moose County actually remind me of people I knew growing up. There was a woman who was a retired teacher and did substitute teaching. She could hardly walk, had difficulty talking and she couldn’t drive because of her vision but she could out run the traffic on her bicycle and if you didn’t get out of her way she would run you down too! She was quite a character!
Beth I am enjoying your book so much. I love the humor, keep it up!
What does everyone like to watch on television? I am a fan of Antiques Roadshow and The Closer. I watch Law and Order and House Hunters on HGTV. Last night on the travel channel I found a show I loved! I can’t remember the name of it, but natives from Tama, an island in the south pacific traveled to America and lived with different families in different areas. It was amazing.
Glad you asked, Anne! Used to watch nothing but Star Trek (any incarnation, but especially Enterprise) until I retired. Now I watch a bunch of shows (possibly way too many.) I loved Eleventh Hour till they took it off (big Rufus Sewell fan). Guess my favorite now is NCIS. I’ve been a big fan of Numbers for years, and guiltily watch Desperate Housewives every week.